Previous Year Question
Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System?
Australia
Canada
Israel
Japan
Correct Answer: D
Detailed Solution
Japan’s own satellite navigation system is known as the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS). It is also called Michibiki.
QZSS is a Japanese satellite positioning system composed mainly of satellites placed in quasi-zenith orbits. Its orbits are designed in such a manner that at least one satellite can remain visible at a high elevation over Japan for an extended period.
QZSS does not replace the Global Positioning System (GPS) of the United States; rather, it operates in an integrated manner with GPS. It increases the number of available satellite signals, particularly in urban areas with high-rise buildings and in mountainous regions, thereby making positioning more stable and precise.
Australia, Canada and Israel do not possess their own satellite navigation system comparable to Japan’s QZSS in the context of the question.