China on space-based navigation systems BeiDou Navigation System (BDS) With this important step, it has become one of the few countries with an independent navigation system on a global scale. In this article, we will discuss the history, current status and future goals of the BeiDou system.
What is BeiDou Navigation System?
BeiDou Navigation System (BDS), is a satellite navigation system launched by China in 1994 that provides global positioning, navigation and timing services. BeiDou is a member of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) family and stands out with its innovative features among these systems.
BeiDou's Development Process
- BDS-1: The first version was completed in 2000 and entered service in the Asia-Pacific region.
- BDS-2: Completed in 2012, this system offered wider coverage and improved services.
- BDS-3: This system, which went into service on July 31, 2020, will put China on the path to the world after the US GPS, Russia's GLONASS and Europe's Galileo systems. third country with its own independent global navigation system turned into.
Features of the Current BeiDou System
Currently BeiDou system covering 30 satellites, operates in three different types of orbits:
- Medium Earth Orbit (MEO): 24 satellites are located here.
- Geostationary Orbit (GEO): There are 3 satellites in this orbit.
- Inclined Synchronous Orbit (CIO): All 3 satellites operate here.
The BeiDou system provides the following services:
- Positioning: Location determination with sub-meter level precision.
- Navigation: Fast and reliable routing.
- Timing: High accuracy time synchronization.
Targets by 2035
China announced plans to develop a next-generation version of the system under the “BeiDou Satellite Navigation System Development Plan Before 28,” published on November 2035. These goals include:
1. New Generation BeiDou System
- Higher Sensitivity: Real-time positioning and navigation at decimeter level.
- Wider Coverage: Providing uninterrupted service from the Earth's surface to space.
- Improved Reliability: The system will be defined by its network integration and flexible adaptation features.
2. Test Satellites and Distribution Process
- 2027: Three test satellites are planned to be launched.
- 2029: Network connection distribution will begin.
- 2035: The new system is aimed to be fully operational.
The Importance of BeiDou in Global Navigation
The BeiDou system is of strategic importance not only to China but to the entire world. The system makes a difference in the following areas:
1. Technological Innovations
BeiDou, unlike other GNSS systems, hybrid orbital constellation This both expands the coverage area and increases the reliability of the system.
2. Economic and Strategic Contributions
- Economic Growth: BeiDou is revolutionizing China's transportation, agriculture, telecommunications and logistics sectors.
- Independence: China has strengthened its global position by reducing its dependence on foreign systems such as GPS.
3. Global Cooperation
BeiDou is also an important tool for international cooperation and trade. The system has a wide user base in many regions, especially in Asia-Pacific.
China's Space Strategy and the Future of BeiDou
China's success in space-based navigation systems his comprehensive vision of space exploration Future development of BeiDou will not only enhance technological superiority but also consolidate China's leadership in the global space race.
The BeiDou Navigation System demonstrates how far China has come in space technology. This system, which has been continuously developing from past to present, will redefine global navigation standards with its next-generation version to be completed by 2035. China’s progress in this field will have a major impact on the world, both technologically and strategically.
