# Compass-IGSO1

> Chinese navigation satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q5156061](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5156061)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compass-IGSO1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/compass-igso1

## Summary
Compass-IGSO1 is a Chinese navigation satellite and part of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS). Launched on July 31, 2010, it plays a key role in providing regional positioning and timing services. The satellite was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 3A rocket.

## Key Facts
- Official name: Compass-IGSO1; alias: BEIDOU IGSO 1  
- Part of: BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS)  
- Launch date: July 31, 2010  
- Launch site: Xichang Satellite Launch Center  
- Launch vehicle: Long March 3A  
- COSPAR ID: 2010-036A  
- SCN (Satellite Catalog Number): 36828  
- Instance of: Navigation satellite  
- Wikidata description: Chinese navigation satellite  

## FAQs
### Q: What is Compass-IGSO1 used for?
A: Compass-IGSO1 is a navigation satellite used for positioning, navigation, and timing services as part of China's BeiDou system. It contributes to regional coverage, particularly in Asia-Pacific regions.

### Q: When was Compass-IGSO1 launched?
A: Compass-IGSO1 was launched on July 31, 2010. The launch took place at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 3A rocket.

### Q: Which system is Compass-IGSO1 part of?
A: Compass-IGSO1 is part of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS), China’s indigenous global navigation satellite system developed as an alternative to GPS.

## Why It Matters
Compass-IGSO1 represents a critical component in the development of China’s BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, which aims to reduce dependence on foreign systems like GPS and GLONASS. As one of the early satellites in the BDS constellation, it helped establish the foundation for regional navigation capabilities. Its successful deployment marked progress toward full operational capability of BeiDou, supporting both civilian and military applications across China and neighboring regions. By contributing to signal accuracy and geographic coverage, Compass-IGSO1 played a role in enabling independent navigation infrastructure for China.

## Notable For
- One of the first generation of BeiDou satellites designed for intermediate inclined orbit (IGSO)
- Launched during the initial phase of BeiDou’s expansion beyond experimental stages
- Supports dual-frequency signals for improved precision in navigation
- Represents China’s strategic push toward self-reliance in space-based positioning technology

## Body
### Mission Overview
Compass-IGSO1 is a navigation satellite belonging to the BeiDou system, specifically occupying an Inclined Geosynchronous Orbit (IGSO). This type of orbit allows the satellite to remain visible over a fixed region for extended periods, enhancing service availability in targeted areas such as East Asia.

### Technical Details
- **Catalog Number**: 36828 (SCN)
- **COSPAR ID**: 2010-036A
- **Alias**: BEIDOU IGSO 1
- **Instance Of**: Navigation satellite

### Launch Information
- **Launch Date**: July 31, 2010
- **Launch Site**: Xichang Satellite Launch Center
- **Launch Vehicle**: Long March 3A
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch occurred on July 31, 2010, at Xichang Satellite Launch Center

### Role within BeiDou System
As part of the BeiDou constellation, Compass-IGSO1 contributes to regional navigation services before the completion of the global BeiDou system. IGSO satellites like Compass-IGSO1 were essential for improving vertical coverage and signal strength in mid-latitude regions.

### Operational Context
The satellite supports dual-frequency transmissions, allowing more accurate corrections for ionospheric delays—a crucial factor in high-precision navigation. It forms part of the mixed constellation approach adopted by BeiDou, which includes Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), and IGSO satellites.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report