BEIDOU IGSO 4

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BEIDOU IGSO 4 is classified as:

NORAD ID: 37763

Int'l Code: 2011-038A

Perigee: 35,344.2 km

Apogee: 36,247.5 km

Inclination: 54.5 °

Period: 1,436.2 minutes

Semi major axis: 42166 km

RCS: 7.9433 m² (large)

Launch date: July 26, 2011
Source: People's Republic of China (PRC)
Launch site: Xichang Space Center, China (XSC)

BEIDOU IGSO 4 is the ninth operational Beidou satellite launched since 2007 and the second Chinese navigation payload shot into orbit this year. More satellites will be launched through 2012 to expand the Beidou network's coverage throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The Beidou satellite network will eventually consist of 35 spacecraft in orbit providing global navigation and positioning coverage by 2020. The satellite constellation, also known as Compass, is designed to provide precise navigation, timing and messaging services. It is China's counterpart to the U.S. Air Force's Global Positioning System, Russia's Glonass satellite fleet and Europe's Galileo program. The best service will be available to Chinese military and civil government users. Positioning information with an accuracy of 10 meters, or about 33 feet, will be released to the public worldwide.