South Korea plans to launch a high-tech infrared detection satellite around 2012 for both civilian and military use.

In its first meeting Tuesday, a newly formed high-level national space council deliberated on a plan to develop the multipurpose satellite Arirang 3A.

The satellite will carry a multispectral infrared camera that can see objects on the ground as small as seventy centimeters across. Possible applications include forest fire detection and analysis of urban heat islands and flood damage.

A follow-up to the satellite Arirang 3 that will be launched in 2009, Arirang 3A will be able to pick up heat and take very high-resolution photos.

The camera's added infrared function will enable high-resolution monitoring of volcanic activity or corporate discharge of wastewater, as well as detection of vehicle and plane movements on the ground.

The space council chaired by Science Minister Kim Woo-sik comprises government officials and civilian experts.