CBS/AP February 10, 2016, 12:01 PM

N. Korea's controversial satellite is tumbling again

WASHINGTON - For a moment there, it seemed like North Korea's boisterous claims about its space prowess were correct.

After the controversial rocket launch over the weekend, analysts initially said the satellite on board -- which many dismiss as a ruse for testing missiles capable of reaching the U.S. -- was "tumbling through orbit," defense officials told CBS News.

Then on Tuesday U.S. defense officials said it appeared to have stabilized in its orbit.

Now, however, Pentagon officials tell CBS News the latest satellite is once again out of control in its space trajectory and therefore is likely useless.

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