Launch Overview
Vehicle
H-IIA 202
Agency
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Site / Pad
TNSC / Y
Outcome
Success
Flight
H-IIA-18
COSPAR Designator
2010-045
Mission
Michibiki (QZS-1) (Navigation)
The Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) is a three-satellite regional time transfer system and the satellite-based augmentation system for the GPS that would be receivable within Japan. The primary purpose of QZSS is to increase the availability of GPS in Japan's numerous urban canyons, where only satellites at very high elevation can be seen. A secondary function is performance enhancement, increasing the accuracy and reliability of GPS derived navigation solutions. A single satellite weighs about 4000 kg, has an expected lifetime of 15 years and is put in a elliptical, highly inclined geosynchronous orbit.
Vehicle & Provider
Rocket
H-IIA 202
Provider
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Agency launches
12 (2 YTD)
Site launches
50 (2 YTD)
Pad launches
25 (2 YTD)