2 Japanese spy eyes peer down on North

TOKYO ― Japan successfully placed its first two spy satellites into orbit yesterday, giving it a round-the-clock source of information about North Korea.
Japan’s National Space Development Agency said the satellites were launched atop an H2A rocket at 10:25 a.m. at the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima.
Until now, the United States has been Japan’s main intelligence source on North Korea.
The spy program, which will eventually be completed with a total of four satellites, was prompted by North Korea’s test in 1998 of a ballistic missile capable of reaching Japan. Two more satellites will be launched Aug. 2. The two satellites will begin transmitting image data in May; analysis will begin in September. The satellites also cover South Korea.
There was no immediate reaction from North Korea.