New activities have been detected at North Korea’s Sohae Satellite Launch Site, suggesting that the country might be preparing for a second satellite launch.
38North, a North Korea specialist media outlet in the U.S., reported on the 25th (local time) that “Satellite image analysis shows that a Y-shaped blue object is currently covering the 410ft runway from the entrance of the coastal launch pad to the retractable shelter.”
“The blue object is likely a covering, possibly a tarp, not paint,” they speculated.
“This object, believed to be a tarp, was arranged in a 154ft length along both sides of the retractable shelter from March 1st to the 12th. This is the first time it has been laid out in this manner,” 38North explained.
“Although the exact features or purpose of the presumed tarp are unknown, there is a high possibility that it is prepared for use when needed,” 38North added.
38North also reported on the 7th that satellite image analysis had captured circumstances of expansion work at the Sohae Satellite Launch Site, including the placement of manpower, vehicles, and materials.
North Korea successfully launched its first military reconnaissance satellite, Malligyong-1, on November 21 last year and announced at the end-of-year Central Committee meeting in December of the same year that it would launch three additional military reconnaissance satellites this year.
Most Commented