China launched the third satellite in its Compass Navigation Satellite System on January 17, 2010.  This satellite is one of five planned geostationary satellites that will ultimately provide navigation coverage within the Asia-Pacific region.  An additional 30 non-geostationary satellites are expected to be in place by 2020 in order to bring the Compass constellation to full global coverage.  

Also known as the Beidou system, the geostationary satellites will provide free open service within the local service area.  A second level of service will provide greater accuracy to authorized users only.