North Korean Spy Satellite Shows Signs of Activity

A North Korean spy satellite, previously thought to be inactive, has displayed signs of life with recent maneuvers in orbit, according to aerospace experts.

Confirmation of Activity

Observations from a satellite tracking station in Leiden, the Netherlands, have revealed movements of the Malligyong-1 satellite, indicating its operational status. Marco Langbroek, a satellite expert at Delft University of Technology, confirmed the satellite’s activity, noting that it is indeed “alive” based on the tracked maneuvers.

Background of Malligyong-1

North Korea launched Malligyong-1 into orbit in November, following two unsuccessful attempts. The launches were criticized by the US, which viewed them as cover for testing missile technology. Initially, South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik suggested the satellite was inactive, but recent observations suggest otherwise.

Orbital Maneuvers

Langbroek’s team tracked Malligyong-1 as it adjusted its orbit, specifically increasing the height of its perigee—the lowest point in the orbit—by approximately five and a half miles. These maneuvers indicate the satellite’s functionality and reveal the existence of a propulsion system previously unknown.

Significance of Propulsion System

The discovery of a propulsion system is significant as it allows the satellite to prolong its lifespan by refreshing its orbit. Without such capability, the satellite’s orbit would gradually decay, leading to its eventual re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. Jonathan McDowell of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics supported Langbroek’s findings, emphasizing the importance of the satellite’s ability to adjust its orbit.

Uncertainties and Speculations

While the recent maneuvers demonstrate Malligyong-1’s operational capabilities, many aspects of its functionality remain unknown. Despite claims from Pyongyang about capturing detailed photographs of various sites, including US landmarks, no images have been released to the public. Additionally, South Korea has issued warnings about the possibility of North Korea launching a new spy satellite as early as March.

Conclusion

The recent revelations about Malligyong-1 underscore North Korea’s continued advancements in space technology and raise concerns about its surveillance capabilities. As experts monitor the situation closely, the implications of North Korea’s space activities remain a subject of international scrutiny and debate.