Even as Pyongyang went ahead with the launch of its first indigenously built communications satellite, analysts believe that the highly publicized satellite launch was a failure. North Korean media reported that the satellite was a three-stage rocket called Unha-21. Despite warning from members of the international community that Pyongyang would be in breach of UN resolutions if it launched the satellite, the calls for restraint had no impact on North Korea2. The United States Northern Command, based in Colorado Springs, also announced that tracking data revealed that the launch was a failure. Discussions will now take place at the UN Security Council for contemplating any further action against Pyongyang.

• 1. “Controversial Satellite Launch North Korea Triggers Alarm,” The Hindu, April 6, 2009, at http://www.hindu.com/2009/04/06/stories/2009040657620100.htm
• 2. William J. Broad, “North Korean Missile Launch was a Failure,” New York Times, April 5, 2009, at http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/06/world/asia/06korea.html?pagewanted=2&hp