Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
North Korea
In pictures: Welcome to the North Korean space control centre!
Take a peek inside the base holding the regime’s most advanced technology.
THE LETTERING ON the electronic sign reads ‘Welcome To The General Satellite Control Centre!’ and technicians work industriously at terminals.
This is the nerve centre of North Korea’s rocket launch operation, which is stoking tensions across the region as neighbouring countries warn of the consequences if the long-range rocket strays into their territory.
The Pyongyang regime has regularly seized opportunities to display its technological advancement to the world, for example releasing photos of students using desktop computers.
And it allowed journalists in to photograph and film its General Launch Command Centre outside Pyongyang – which looks like a throwback to another age of space travel. Here’s a peek inside:
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
Inside the North Korean space centre
have your say