UNIST has been selected to lead a major national research project aimed at developing core technologies for very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellite platforms, reinforcing Korea's efforts to strengthen its space technology capabilities.

The project is part of the 2026 Space-K BIG Project, an initiative of the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) that designs leading university research centers to advance foundational space technologies while training the next generation of space professionals.

Under the program, the Department of Electrical Engineering at UNIST will receive KRW 5.7 billion in government funding through December 2030. The project, led by Professor Gangil Byun from the  Department of Electrical Engineering , brings together Professors Myungsoo Kim, Hoon Lee, Jinseok Park, Minho Choi, Dongyun Kam, Kawon Han, and Jaeyong Jeong in a multidisciplinary effort.

Titled "Mission-Oriented Convergent Platform Technologies for Very Low Earth Orbit Satellites and Global Talent Development," the project will develop key technologies for future satellite missions, including space-qualified RF devices, AI semiconductors, and optoelectronic components. Researchers will also advance domestically developed commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies for satellite applications and establish an integrated VLEO satellite platform for future mission deployment.

Education and workforce development form another major component of the initiative. UNIST will collaborate with industry, government research institutes, and international partners to provide students with hands-on research experience through joint projects and specialized training, creating an integrated environment that connects education with advanced space research.

“This project provides an important opportunity for UNIST to lead research on core technologies for very low Earth orbit satellites while cultivating globally competitive talent in space engineering,” said Professor Gangil Byun, the project's principal investigator. “By combining the expertise of our faculty with the innovative capabilities of our industry partners, we aim to deliver technologies that will contribute to the future growth of Korea’s space industry.”