The U.S. believes North Korea may launch its newest rocket within the next 24 hours, though the window for Thursday has already passed.

North Korean leaders claim they're simply sending a weather satellite into orbit that will relay data for agricultural surveys and weather forecasts.

In a rare move for the communist country, foreign reporters were invited to visit the satellite control command center in Pyongyang Wednesday.

U.S. leaders believe the launch is a cover to test technology that could ultimately deliver a warhead to America's doorstep.

The Unha-3 rocket being used to launch the satellite into orbit could also be fitted with a nuclear payload aimed at the U.S. or other countries.

The United States, Britain and Japan say the launch violates U.N. Security Council resolutions banning North Korea's nuclear and missile programs.

The rocket is expected to cross over the Philippines and splash down in waters not far from Australia.

Nations in its path say they're ready to shoot it down if it strays over land.