무한 우주

In the mock-up Space Center in Gwacheon National Science Museum, a video conference between Dr. Lee So-yeon (the first Korea's astronaut) in Space and elementary school kids on Earth was shown on one of the large-screen monitors. One of the questions the kids asked her was what must we do to become an astronaut. Her advice to the kids was, "To become an astronaut, you will have to work hard and strengthen on your current homework, study and health. Because only then can you become an astronaut in the future."

Her words were probably more than advice to the kids. They were inspiration. The Koreans will again be inspired when KSLV-1, carrying a satellite, launches at the Naro Space Center later this year. I am waiting for the moment to be inspired as well. The ambition of Korea's Space Programme is exhibited at the Advanced Science and Technology Hall 2 in the Gwacheon National Science Museum.

Dr. Lee So-yeon - the first Korea's astronaut.

A model of the telecommunications and weather satellite to be launched by KSLV-1.

This is an open-air exhibit - a replica of the Korea Space Launch Vehicle 1 (KSLV-1). This two-stage unmanned rocket, co-designed by Korea and Russia, is planned to be launched from the Naro Space Center (나로우주센터) in July this year. The rocket is capable of launching a satellite weighing 100 kilograms into low orbit.

The Naro Space Center is situated at Oenaru Island (외나로도, 外羅老島), Goheung County (고흥군, 高興郡), Jeollanam Province. Oenaru Island, off the southwest coast of Korea, is the most suitable place to launch a rocket without having to intrude the airspace of Russia to the North, China to the West and Japan to the East.

A mock-up of a Space Center (우주센터). KSLV this is Naro, standby for lifting off...

5... 4... 3... 2... 1... Ignition!

Lift-off... and we have a lift-off

A spacesuit bearing the insignia of KARI (Korea Aerospace Research Institute) - Korea's equivalent of NASA.

A mock-up of the International Space Station (국제우주정거장, 國際宇宙停車場). You probably wouldn't want to live in it if you see the facilities inside. It is more likely to be hardship than luxury.

A Return Capsule (귀환캡슐) hanging high up in the exhibition hall.