North Korea's satellite launch rocket faced a mid-air explosion captured by a South Korean observatory, possibly to hinder recovery. The Chollima-1 launch ended with deliberate destruction of its first stage, a tactic not seen before, aimed at preventing recovery of new engine propellant. Satellite experts believe this was intentional. South Korea's military seeks debris retrieval, crucial for intelligence on the rocket's technology. Russia, accused of aiding North Korea, denied military collaboration but pledged satellite assistance earlier.