Quasi-Zenith Satellite System
The Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), also known as Michibiki (みちびき), is a four-satellite regional satellite navigation system and a satellite-based augmentation system developed by the Japanese government to enhance the United States-operated Global Positioning System (GPS) in the Asia-Oceania regions, with a focus on Japan. The goal of QZSS is to provide highly precise and stable positioning services in the Asia-Oceania region, compatible with GPS. Four-satellite QZSS services were available on a trial basis as of 12 January 2018, and officially started on 1 November 2018. A satellite navigation system independent of GPS is planned for 2023 with seven satellites. In May 2023 it was announced that the system would expand to eleven satellites.
| Country/ies of origin | Japan |
|---|---|
| Operator(s) | Quasi-Zenith Satellite System Services Inc. / Cabinet Office |
| Type | Civilian |
| Status | Operational |
| Coverage | Regional |
| Accuracy | PNT <10 m (public) SLAS <1 m (public) CLAS <10 cm (public) |
| Constellation size | |
| Nominal satellites | 7 |
| Current usable satellites | 4 |
| First launch | 11 September 2010 |
| Last launch | 26 October 2021 |
| Total launches | 5 |
| Orbital characteristics | |
| Regime(s) | 3x GSO |
| Other details | |
| Cost | JPY 170 billion |
| Website | qzss |