Subscribe with SteadyQZS 5 (Michibiki 5)
QZS 5 (Michibiki 5) [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.
QZS 5 was launched in late December 2025, but suffered a launch vehicle stage 2 failure. It has reached a very low earth orbit and has reentered after one or two revolutions.
| Nation: | Japan |
|---|---|
| Type / Application: | Navigation |
| Operator: | JAXA |
| Contractors: | Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO) |
| Equipment: | transponders |
| Configuration: | DS-2000 |
| Propulsion: | R-4D |
| Power: | 2 deployable solar arrays, batteries |
| Lifetime: | 15 years |
| Mass: | 4800 kg (#5) |
| Orbit: | IGEO (planned); 109 km × 441 km, 30.1° (reached) |
| Satellite | COSPAR | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QZS 5 (Michibiki 5) | 2025-U04 | 22.12.2025 | Ta YLP-2 | f | H-3-22S |
Launch Sites:
- Ta = Tanegashima Space Center, Tanegashima, Japan
References:
- QZS 1 (Michibiki 1) [QZS Block 1-Q]
- QZS 2, 4 (Michibiki 2, 4) [QZS Block 2-Q]
- QZS 3 (Michibiki 3) [QZS Block 2-G]
- QZS 1R (Michibiki 1R) [QZS Block 2-AQ]
- QZS 5 (Michibiki 5) [QZS Block 3-Q]
- QZS 6, 7 (Michibiki 6, 7) [QZS Block 3-G]
