Report: North Korea's First Spy Satellite is 'Alive'

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Image copyright: Chung Sung-Jun/Staff /Getty Images News via Getty images

The Facts

  • Two prominent aerospace experts have said that North Korea's inaugural spy satellite — Malligyong-1 — is functional and under control after data from the Combined Space Operations Center indicated maneuvers to raise its perigee, the lowest point in its orbit.

  • Additionally, the tracked movements indicate that the Malligyong-1 has a propulsion system, which can prevent orbit decay and extend the satellite's lifespan.

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The Spin

Pro-North Korea narrative

With Malligyong-1 operating in orbit, North Korea has bolstered its self-defense capabilities and war deterrence amid a deteriorating security environment featuring Pyongyang’s enemies conducting dangerous military actions in the Korean Peninsula. No one can deny North Korea's right to self-defense.

KCNA Watch

Anti-North Korea Narrative

While it may claim that military spy satellites are justified and legitimate in defending its sovereignty and security against the US and its allies, the truth is that North Korea is using ballistic missile technology to compete with other growing space powers in the region. Pyongyang is further fueling instability with its provocative escalations.

Economist

Metaculus Prediction