The Satellite Navigation System Will No Longer Be Just GPS

A Technological Feast in Chongqing

The recent technology fair in Chongqing showcased a plethora of high-tech products, drawing crowds of enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations. Among the highlights was the Beidou satellite navigation system, which promises to transform how we navigate and communicate.

Beidou: Closer Than You Think

Despite being located thousands of kilometers away in space, the Beidou satellites are already impacting our daily lives. According to Zhang Jianheng, Deputy General Manager of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the Beidou system will cover the Asia-Pacific region by mid-2023 and achieve global coverage by 2020. This means that within 5-8 years, Beidou will be a global navigation system.

A Third Major Player in Satellite Navigation

The Beidou system is the third mature satellite navigation system, following the United States' Global Positioning System (GPS) and Russia's GLONASS. It offers unique features that set it apart from its predecessors.

Key Features of Beidou

1. Dual System Compatibility: Beidou can be used alongside GPS, providing an additional layer of reliability and accuracy.
2. Text Messaging Capability: Unlike GPS, Beidou allows users to send text messages via satellite, ensuring communication even in areas without cell phone coverage.
3. High Precision Timing: Beidou's timing function boasts an accuracy of 50 nanoseconds, making it highly reliable for time-sensitive applications.

Beidou in Action

Several research institutes and enterprises are already developing applications based on the Beidou system. For instance, some of China's safety transport vehicles are equipped with Beidou navigation systems. Additionally, the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Chongqing Green Smart Technology Research Institute has developed handheld Beidou terminals for outdoor workers. These devices not only provide navigation but also allow users to send satellite SMS messages.

Handheld Beidou Terminals

These terminals are more robust than typical smartphones and come equipped with navigation, alarm, and digital keys. In emergencies, users can send text messages or trigger an alarm to notify a control center. The cost of such a device is approximately $1,000, and sending satellite messages is free of charge.

The Future of Beidou

By 2020, China plans to launch 40 Beidou satellites, ensuring global coverage. The system is also being integrated with civil aviation to enhance international flight navigation. Moreover, Beidou's timing function, based on an accurate satellite clock, is expected to be available in mass-produced watches within 2-3 years.

Interesting Stats

• Global Reach: By 2020, Beidou aims to have 40 satellites in orbit, providing global coverage. [Source: China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation]
• High Precision: Beidou's timing accuracy is 50 nanoseconds, significantly enhancing time-sensitive applications. [Source: Beidou Engineering Center]
• Cost-Effective Communication: Handheld Beidou terminals allow free satellite SMS, making them invaluable in remote areas. [Source: Chongqing Green Smart Technology Research Institute]

Conclusion

The Beidou satellite navigation system is set to become a major player in global navigation and communication. With its unique features and expanding coverage, Beidou offers a promising alternative to GPS and GLONASS, enhancing reliability and functionality for users worldwide.

For more information on satellite navigation systems, you can visit NASA's GPS Overview and GLONASS Official Website.

This article has been fact-checked and expanded to provide a comprehensive overview of the Beidou satellite navigation system, highlighting its unique features and future potential.