Korea Rocket Never Made Orbit

North Korea's launch early this morning of what officials said was a satellite rocket never made orbit, despite the nation's claims to the contrary, according to US and South Korean officials. The finding was further evidence that the launch was a ballistic missile test disguised as part of a space program. “No object entered orbit,” said the US Northern Command. “Stage one of the missile fell into the Sea of Japan/East Sea."

"The remaining stages along with the payload itself landed in the Pacific Ocean.” US officials found the launch was “not a threat to North America or Hawaii” and “took no action in response.” Speaking in Prague, President Obama slammed North Korea’s move, saying it “broke the rules once more by testing a rocket that could be used for a long-range missile.” Leaders are meeting today to discuss the rocket in an emergency session of the UN Security Council.
(More North Korea stories.)