Japan has successfully launched the 5th satellite to support the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), an analog of the global positioning system (GPS) that provides location services. The H2A No.44 rocket carrying the 5th Michibiki satellite was launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture in southwest Japan at 11.19 am local time. The satellite left the rocket about 30 minutes after launch, and settled into orbit.
The satellite will replace a satellite that started its mission 11 years ago and has completed its usable life. It is stated that the new satellite will contribute to providing better quality signal to dense urban areas and mountainous areas.