CAS500-2 Satellite Launched on SpaceX Falcon 9
Why in the news
SpaceX successfully lifted South Korea’s CAS500-2 satellite on a Falcon 9, in a mission that also carried dozens of smaller payloads.
Key facts
- Satellite: CAS500-2, an Earth observation spacecraft belonging to South Korea.
- Launcher: reusable Falcon 9 flown by SpaceX from California.
- Orbit: sun-synchronous.
- Rideshare: 45 payloads went up alongside the main satellite.
- Use: high-resolution imaging that supports surveillance and mapping.
Significance
- The flight shows how commercial launchers and shared-ride missions are changing access to space.
Exam angle
- Satellite owner: South Korea; launch vehicle: Falcon 9 (reusable).
- Orbit type to recall: sun-synchronous; mission style: rideshare with 45 payloads.