Asia-Pacific

Japan launches satellite to improve GPS functioning

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-09-11 23:10

A Japanese H-2A rocket, carrying the global positioning satellite Michibiki, blasts off into space from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture, southwestern Japan September 11, 2010. [Photo/Agencies]

TOKYO - Japan launched a rocket carrying a satellite from the Tanegashima space center on Saturday, aiming to improve its global positioning systems.    

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched the H2A rocket at 20:17 pm (1117 GMT) from the space center in southern Kagoshima Prefecture.

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The quasi-zenith satellite "Michibiki," which is meant to enhance the accuracy and coverage of GPS services in Japan, was successfully separated from the rocket 28 minutes after the launch.

Currently, the radio waves of the satellites can be affected by skyscrapers in urban area or mountains, according to scientists of the JAXA.

Another two satellites are intended, because the "Michibiki" will only be above Japan for eight hours a day.

But The Japanese government has suspended the launch plans for the additional satellites, according to local media.