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This possible support area is located approximately 200 meters to the North of the Launch Pad. It consists of at least four single-story buildings, typically about 5 meters by 15 meters. Three of the buildings are associated with an irregular walled compound, while the fourth building is surrounded by a separate low wall. A variety of irregular formations are scattered across this complex, which is interspersed with dirt-track roads about 3 meters wide. Objects to the West of the buildings may include one or more trucks, though positive identification is not possible at available resolution.
The association of the buildings in this area with missile test activities is not apparent, although such use cannot be excluded. There is a complete absence of functionally related signatures that might be associated with missile test support operations. The configuration of the buildings is consistent with other evidently agricultural structures, and the irregular disposition of the buildings, walls, and probable storage areas is generally more consistent with agricultural functions. Although initially considered as a possible missile propellant storage area, closer examination did not reveal features that would be expected to be associated with such a function.
The most compelling feature associating this area with the missile test function is the network of roadways to the South that provide multiple connections to the launch pad. Some of these unpaved roadways appear well-travelled, suggesting a not-entirely coincidental connection. However, a network of smaller roads or trails extends to the North of this area, and these trails have no evident connection to missile test launch activities.
This one-meter resolution black-and-white image of Tae Po Dong, North Korea
was collected November 1, 1999 by Space Imaging's IKONOS satellite. The
image features the Tae Po Dong missile facility.
Credit: "spaceimaging.com."
