The first time North Korea test-fired a missile that some experts thought might be able to reach the west coast of the U.S., the Taepodong-2 exploded shortly after take off. That was in July 2006.

Now, according to the Associated Press:

A U.S. official says North Korea is readying an advanced missile capable of reaching the United States, and that Pyongyang appears to be preparing to test it.

The official is confirming a report from South Korea's Yonhap news agency that says satellite images and other intelligence indicate the North has transported its most advanced long-range missile to a launch site.

Serious stuff, for sure. But watch for the inevitable jokes.