Astronomers say North Korean satellite tumbling and probably dead

Astronomers reported Monday that the North Korean satellite launched into space last week is out of control and most likely dead.

The apparent failure will not cause the spacecraft to fall quickly back to earth but represents a major setback in Pyongyang's bid to portray the launching as a patriotic and technological success.

"It's tumbling and we haven't picked up any transmissions," said Jonathan McDowell, a Harvard astronomer who tracks global rocket launchings and space activity. "Those two things are most consistent with the satellite being entirely inactive at this point."

North Korea State media has been describing the satellite launching as a triumphal achievement of the young leader Kim Jong-un (pictured above).

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