Space Systems

• Quasi-zenith Satellite System (QZSS)

Quasi-zenith Satellite System (QZSS)

QZSS is a constellation of Japan’s geographic positioning satellites. These satellites travel in a geosynchronous orbit at an inclination of 45 degrees in order to pass near the zenith over Japan, thus providing seamless service irrespective of geographical features. They will significantly improve the accuracy of positioning in areas where GPS signals are not fully received due to interference caused by skyscrapers and mountainous terrain.

The first quasi-zenith satellite was launched in September 2010.
Three additional satellites will be launched consecutively starting in 2017, establishing a system of four satellites.

Mitsubishi Electric will continue to contribute to the advancement of geographic positioning satellites, which are useful for various applications such as traffic and surveying.

Quasi-zenith Satellite-1 (QZS-1)

• Client

  JAXA

• Launch date

  September 11, 2010

• Launch vehicle

  H-ⅡA

• Launch site

  Tanegashima Space Center

• Orbit

  Quasi-zenith (geosynchronous orbit with inclination of 45 degrees)

• Mass

  Approx. 4t (at launch)

• Electrical power

  5,300W

• Design life

  10 years

• Responsibilities

  Prime contractor

Quasi-zenith Satellite-2, -3, -4 (QZS-2, -3, -4)
Quasi-zenith Satellite-1R, -5, -6, -7 (QZS-1R, -5 , -6, -7)

• Client

  Cabinet Office, Government Of Japan Office of National Space Policy

• Launch date

  QZS-2：June 1, 2017
  QZS-3：August 19, 2017
  QZS-4：October 10, 2017
  QZS-1R：FY2020
  QZS-5：FY2023
  QZS-6：FY2023
  QZS-7：FY2023

• Launch vehicle

  H-ⅡA / H3

• Launch site

  Tanegashima Space Center

• Orbit

  4 satellites: Quasi-zenith (geosynchronous orbit with inclination of 45 degrees)
  3 satellite: Geostationary orbit

• Mass

  -

• Electrical power

  -

• Design life

  15 years

• Responsibilities

  Prime contractor

Learn more about new ground antennas and satellite control systems for QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System)