North Korean missile launch deferred until Dec 29

December 11, 2012 09:05

North Korea is pressing ahead with preparation for a long-range rocket launch after extending its liftoff window by another week until December 29 because of technical problems.

An unidentified spokesman for the North's Korean Committee of Space Technology told state media on Monday that scientists found a "technical deficiency in the first-stage control engine module of the rocket."

The statement didn't elaborate but said technicians were moving ahead with final preparations for the liftoff from a west coast launch site.

The second day of North Korea's extended 20-day launch window began on Tuesday morning without signs of a liftoff.

The specifics of the rocket's technical problems aren't clear, but state media put out an overnight dispatch detailing the unusually cold weather and heavy snow hitting the northern part of the Korean Peninsula.

It's North Korea's second attempt of the year, and the fifth since 1998, to launch a rocket that the United Nations, Washington, Seoul and others call a cover meant to test technology for missiles that could be used to strike the United States.

« Back to LIVE

TOP STORIES

Oil-gas stocks: Investors must brace for negative impact in Q1 FY25

Escalation of the conflict in West Asia between Israel and Iran has had a direct impact on the energy markets, and more broadly on the financial markets as well as the global economy.

People Will Ensure BJP Pays For This Murder'

'This might prove to be a temporary gain for the BJP, but at a huge cost to the people of Gujarat and democracy in India.'

Heatwave: 7 Tips To Stay Safe, Healthy

It is important to be wary of sunburn, dizziness, heatstroke, stomach issues and other heat-related illnesses, advises Dr Vidhe Sharma.

High Drama As Campaign Ends In TVM!

As the curtain falls on the campaign for the Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha seat on Wednesday, April 24, a ringside view of the closing ceremonies.

Election 2024: Decoding The Swing Factor

There are states that could swing either way and change the results of the 2024 general election.