Tags: DigitalGlobe, North Korea, Earth Observation
Publication: CNN.com
Publication Date: 11/13/2012

The discolored flame trench and burnt vegetation around it suggest that another rocket engine test was recently conducted. Additionally, a small crane probably used to load the rocket engine is spotted on the September 28 image. Image credit: DigitalGlobe/38 North

DigitalGlobe satellite imagery might suggest North Korea is testing liquid-fueled large rocket engines suspected to be for use in ballistic missiles. According to the analysis of the images by 38 North, a program of the U.S.-Korea Institute at SAIS, the satellite images from the Sohae Satellite Launching Station indicate that at least two tests were completed there, one as early as mid-September.

38 North bases its allegations in the observation of exhaust stains and scorching of nearby vegetation in the satellite images between April and September. The program also reported construction activity possibly for launching larger long-range rockets.

Analyst report that another rocket launch from North Korea is likely to strain even more the relationship between this country and the United States. The Korean long-range rocket that broke apart after launch on April 13 already thwarted a deal between the two nations where the U.S. would have provided food to aid the malnourished population in North Korea.

The country also had two previous failed satellite launches in 2006 and 2006, which were followed by nuclear tests. While it hasn’t happened this time, 38 North warns that it is still a possibility.

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