North Korea appears to have tested a rocket engine in recent weeks at the country’s main space launch complex, according to NK Pro analysis of satellite imagery, as Pyongyang continues to prepare its first satellite launch of the year. 

Planet Labs satellite imagery shows what appears to be vegetation die-off under the vertical engine test stand at the Sohae Satellite Launching Grounds between April 21 and 26, likely caused by intense heat and exposure to chemicals emitted during a lengthy engine burn.

Infrared and true-color high-resolution images show the die-off more clearly between April 21 and 28, while