dagblog - Comments for "North Korean missile launch: too soon to panic?"

At the same time, we get a

kgb999 — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 06:44:46 +0000

In reply to North Korean missile launch: too soon to panic?

At the same time, we get a great opportunity to get some serious data on that sucker. It seems most of the missile technology in the M.E. is based on N.K. design. Couldn't hurt to get a better look at where the designs are going.

I wonder what sort of satellite they are launching ... damn thing is probably going to smash into someone else's knowing the N. Korean technology.

It's obvious that putting

acanuck — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 02:11:50 +0000

In reply to North Korean missile launch: too soon to panic?

It's obvious that putting something into orbit takes a specific trajectory (although virtually any long-range launch will pass over some part of Japan). Satellite or not, it's also a good test of your rocket's engines, guidance and control systems.
And we agree: North Korea wants recognition and respect, not piles of smoldering rubble.

Launches are very different

The Old Grouch — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 01:50:32 +0000

In reply to North Korean missile launch: too soon to panic?

Launches are very different than missile tests. If only in terms of trajectory and deployment of a payload.

I don't think anyone is quite so stupid to think NK is going to attack anyone in this way - they know it will bring instant massive retaliation, probably to the extent of annihilation. They're troublesome and intransigent but not suicidal - they have goals and martyrdom isn't likely one of them.

We'll know a bit more shortly in any case.

No reason it can't be a

acanuck — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 01:14:41 +0000

In reply to North Korean missile launch: too soon to panic?

No reason it can't be a satellite launch and a missile test at the same time.
Whatever its trajectory, unless it goes off course and heads straight for Tokyo, there's no point to trying to shoot it down.
It's not like it carries a warhead. Nobody thinks the North Koreans are so wily they would plan a sneak attack but announce it weeks in advance to throw the Japanese off guard.
Or would they?

Let's see what they actually

The Old Grouch — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:51:44 +0000

In reply to North Korean missile launch: too soon to panic?

Let's see what they actually do. If it is a satellite launch it will be quite apparent. If not, we'll know. And the last Taepodong test didn't fare so well for NK, did it?