SatVu's high-resolution thermal imagery recently supported specialist publication 38 North with evidence which indicates increased levels of activity at the Yongbyon Nuclear Scientific Research Center in North Korea.
In a series of images captured over October, November and December 2023, SatVu's data indicated thermal signatures from the site's 5 MWe reactor, it's Experimental Light Water Reactor (ELWR), and the discharge of warmer water from the South Pumping Station - which 38 North used to support their work.
Monitoring this site is important as 38 North state that “when operating at full capacity, the ELWR could significantly increase North Korea’s fissile material stockpile.”
While historic optical satellite imagery showed construction work at the site, without thermal insights, observers previously had to make use of indicators such as snow melt (implying heat activity within a building)or the presence of construction materials.
However, in 2023, SatVu’s first satellite HotSat-1 captured a series of high-resolution thermal images over the site. From these, it’s possible to infer the operational status of the facility.
High-resolution thermal imagery captured by SatVu on October 28, 2023 shows limited heat signals where they might be expected if the site was operational.
This changes by November 17, although hazy conditions make strong heat signals harder to differentiate.
One week later on November 23, heat signals indicating that the site is operational are clearly visible, with warmer water discharge seen from the South Pumping Station and thermal activity over both the 5 MWe Reactor and ELWR.
The same trends are seen on December 6 with warmer water visible from both north and south outflow points and activity at both reactors.
38 North’s article states that a "heat signature at the power switchyard supporting the ELWR, combined with a continuous surge of warm water discharge at the suspected cooling lines, suggests that the ELWR may be undergoing pre-operational testing or is in the early stages of operation"which they say could support North Korea's nuclear programme.
This increased activity was also noted by the International Atomic Energy Association and several other analysts.
