N Korea completes ‘important’ test of spy satellite: State media

N Korea has released satellite imagery of South Korea’s Seoul and Incheon cities presumed to have been shot during a test.

North Korea has conducted an “important, final phase” test in the development of a military reconnaissance satellite, which the country plans to complete by April 2023, North Korean state media has reported.

North Korea’s National Aerospace Development Administration conducted the test on Sunday at the country’s Sohae satellite launching station in Cholsan, in North Pyongan Province.

A rocket carrying what was described as a “test-piece satellite” — including multiple cameras, image transmitters and receivers, a control device, and a storage battery — was launched at a “lofted angle” to an altitude of 500km (311 miles).

The test was designed to review satellite imaging capabilities, data transmission, and a ground control system.

“We confirmed important technical indicators such as camera operating technology in the space environment, data processing and transmission ability of the communication devices, tracking and control accuracy of the ground control system,” an unnamed North Korean aerospace spokesperson said.

North Korea plans to complete “preparations for the first military reconnaissance satellite by April 2023,” the official said in a report.

Agencies