Satellite Did Not Reach Orbit

It seems that the satellite the North Koreans attempted to put into space crashed into the Pacific Ocean last night.

This from NORAD and U.S. Northern Command officials. They say stages one and two of the rocket fell into the Sea of Japan, and the payload itself fell into the Pacific.

Of course the state run North Korean news agency is saying the launch was a success, and that the satellite is up there right now, spitting out patriotic songs.

I am more inclined to believe U.S. intelligence statements than North Korean, however, and come to the conclusion that this satellite is not in space.

That may not be the key point to come a way from this launch with, however. The North Koreans have proven they can launch a Taepodong-2 missile succesfully, and no doubt there will be potential buyers coming to their doorstep.

In fact, Iranian officials were on site yesterday, observing the launch. This may only be the beginning of a process whereby Iran purchases the technology from North Korea, and poses a potentially deadly threat to various nations throught the Middle East and the world. THAT possibility should be the real concern to all nations hoping to avoid war.