The first pictures of what appears to be North Korea’s first “spy satellite” have been released, showing the mysterious object suspended in the air above a military parade.
The satellite, which was first reported by the North Korean state news agency, appears to be a small, circular object with two solar panels and a “stub” antenna. It is suspended in the air by a cluster of balloons and is surrounded by a military honor guard.
The satellite was first unveiled during a military parade in October 2020, and the new photographs appear to be the first close-up shots of the mystery object.
Although North Korea has yet to officially confirm what the satellite is intended for, some analysts have suggested that it could be used for surveillance and reconnaissance purposes. It is believed to have been launched in February 2021.
The satellite’s exact capabilities and purpose remain unknown, but it is likely to be more advanced than the country’s first satellite, Kwangmyongsong-3, which was launched in 2012.
Analysts have speculated that the satellite could be equipped with an imaging system that would allow it to monitor activities on the Korean peninsula, as well as other parts of the world. If true, this would mark a significant development in North Korea’s space program and its ability to gather intelligence.
