Quick Takes: Sohae Satellite Launching Station Remains Quiet

Commercial satellite imagery from March 14 of the Sohae Satellite Launching Station, North Korea’s main space launch facility, indicates little activity around the facility as a whole and shows no indications of a recent or forthcoming engine test or preparations for a satellite launch. At the vertical engine test stand, the rail-mounted environmental shelter remains in the same position it has been since December 2017. At the launch pad, construction of a new building immediately to the south continues at a very slow pace, although its purpose is still unknown. At the former satellite control building, a monument has been constructed and is surrounded by a new orchard.

Figure 1. Rail-mounted environmental shelter remains in same position since December 2017.

Figure 2. Construction of new building continues slowly.

Figure 3. No activity observed at the launch pad.

Figure 4. New monument and orchard near former Satellite Control Center.