Beidou-2

China is developing its own global satellite navigation system and its code name is the "Compass" also known as Beidou-2, BD2. This project is a crucial part of this Asian Giant’s space infrastructure for providing navigation and positioning services in transportation, meteorology, petroleum prospecting, forest fire monitoring, disaster forecast, telecommunications and public security etc. COMPASS is a Global navigation satellite system and will be a constellation of 35 satellites, including 5 geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites and 30 medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites for complete coverage of globe. At present China and most other countries depend upon US for GPS. This project, which started in 2000 with launch of 2 orbiters as a double-satellite experimental positioning system. The country hopes that it will be able to provide services by 2020.