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QZS 1R, 2, 4 (Michibiki 1R, 2, 4)

QZS 2 (Michibiki) [MHI]

QZSS (Quasi Zenith Satellite System) is a Japanese satellite navigation system operating from inclined, elliptical geosynchronous orbits to achieve optimal high-elevation visibility in urban canyons and mountainous areas. The navigation system objective is to broadcast GPS-interoperable and augmentation signals as well as original Japanese (QZSS) signals from a three-spacecraft constellation.

The navigation system objective is to broadcast GPS-interoperable and augmentation signals as well as original Japanese (QZSS) signals from a three-spacecraft constellation in inclined, elliptical geosynchronous orbits.

Phase one will demonstrate the technological validation for the enhancement of GPS availability and performance and their application, using the first Quasi-Zenith Satellite (QZS 1) Michibiki. After evaluating these results, the plan moves into phase two which demonstrates the full system capability using three Quasi-Zenith Satellites, including QZS-1. JAXA is in charge of integrating the system as a whole, as well as cooperating with related research organizations to develop the High Accuracy Positioning Experiment System, the QZS Bus System and the Tracking Control System.

The QZS 1 is based on Mitsubishi's ETS-8-Bus and will have a lift off weight of 4100 kg. The QZS satellites are to operate for more than 10 years.  

Three more improved QZSS satellites have been ordered in April 2013. QZS-2 and QZS-4 will also operate from the inclined 24 hour orbit, while QZS 3 will augment the system from a geostationary orbit.

Nation: Japan
Type / Application: Navigation
Operator: JAXA
Contractors: Mitsubishi Electric (MELCO)
Equipment: transponders
Configuration: DS-2000
Propulsion: R-4D
Power: 2 deployable solar arrays, batteries
Lifetime: 15 years
Mass: 4000 kg
Orbit: 32618 km × 38950 km, 41° (#2) 35889 km × 36070, 40.4° (#4)
Satellite COSPAR Date LS Launch Vehicle Remarks
QZS 1R (Michibiki 1R) 2021-096A 26.10.2021 Ta YLP-1 H-2A-202
QZS 2 (Michibiki 2) 2017-028A 01.06.2017 Ta YLP-1 H-2A-202
QZS 4 (Michibiki 4) 2017-062A 09.10.2017 Ta YLP-1 H-2A-202

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