Technical Problem Delay North Korean Rocket Launch

Technical Problem Delays North Korean Rocket Launch

A component was removed from the North Korean rocket following the discovery of a technical problem by authorities in North Korea, according to news reports from South Korea. The long-range rocket has caused uproar in the international community following its insistence of launching it. Sanctions were imposed by the UN that prohibited the reclusive country from performing missile tests as a result from the nuclear tests the country conducted in 2006 and 2009.

The problem on the rocket was discovered as preparations were made for the launch. It remains uncertain if scientists were working on the problem or if the entire operation will be scrapped.

Critics have indicated that rocket is part of the program of North Korea in attaining long-range missile capabilities. However, the reclusive country has indicated that it aims to bring a weather satellite into orbit using the rocket.

The technical problems have resulted to an extension of the launch window from December 22 to December 29. An earlier rocket test conducted by North Korea last April ended up as a failure. A source within the government revealed that part of the North Korean rocket was being disassembled at the launch pad.

Sources also indicated that North Korea is still determined to launch the rocket although these reports have remained unconfirmed by South Korean authorities. South Korea, Japan, Russia and the US are among the countries that have condemned the planned rocket launch.

The initial launch date of the North Korean rocket is close to the first death anniversary of the former leader of the country, Kim Jong-il.

Posted by James Fried on Tuesday December 11 2012, 9:59 AM EST. Ref: Reuters. Link. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under World. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0