The China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology announced the successful launch of the first geosynchronous satellite in China’s Compass constellation on July 31, 2010.  China has already launched four geostationary satellites that will provide navigation coverage within the Asia-Pacific region by late 2012.  The first geosynchronous satellite is part of China’s proposed plan to provide full global coverage by 2020, similar to what is currently provided by the United States’ GPS constellation. 

Japan is also moving ahead with its Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS).  The QZSS will provide navigation coverage for Japan and portions of the surrounding Asia-Pacific region, with full operational status anticipated in 2013.  The first satellite was originally scheduled to launch on August 2, 2010, but the launch was postponed due to a suspected defect in the satellite’s reaction-wheel assembly system.  The defective part has since been replaced, and the launch has been rescheduled for September 11, 2010. 

The QZSS will provide high accuracy positioning to most of Japan, even where urban canyons or mountainous terrain might otherwise be an issue.  Following a campaign by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the satellite has been nicknamed “Michibiki,” which means “guiding star” or “showing the way.”  The satellite also has its own mascot as well as a dedicated website that will provide 3-D interaction and information about the satellite beginning on August 23. 

The Quasi-Zenith Satellite System Orbit will keep a navigational satellite almost directly overhead at all times, providing greater positioning accuracy for GNSS users in Japan (public domain image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons).