Thermal satellite images show Yongbyon reactors running nonstop

Thermal satellite images reveal that North Korea's Yongbyon nuclear complex has maintained its key reactors and processing plants in operation since 2026. High-resolution photos and thermal infrared data show the site steadily growing its capacity to produce fissile material for nuclear weapons. The complex, located about 100km north of Pyongyang, remains the country's sole source of plutonium.

Thermal images indicate continuous heat emissions of around 26-28°C (79-82°F) around the reactor area, confirming that the 5MWe reactor and the 25MWe experimental light water reactor are still operational. Stronger heat signatures, reaching 29-30°C (84-86°F), were detected around the Radiochemical Laboratory and the older uranium enrichment plant, suggesting active plutonium reprocessing and highly enriched uranium (HEU) production.

The Radiochemical Laboratory, where North Korea extracts plutonium from spent reactor fuel, and the HEU production facility display hot spots, indicating active processes. North Korea appears to be modernizing the complex while attempting to evade surveillance. A new uranium enrichment building is nearing completion, while the dismantling of the long-abandoned 50MWe reactor continues.

Workers have reinforced the 5MWe reactor to minimize heat emissions. These actions suggest Pyongyang is prioritizing the maximum output of nuclear material, aligning with Kim Jong Un's goal of an exponential expansion of the country's nuclear arsenal.