MTSAT Satellite Augmentation System

Multi-functional Satellite Augmentation System (MTSAT or MSAS)^[1] is a Japanese satellite based augmentation system (SBAS), i.e. a satellite navigation system which supports differential GPS (DGPS) to supplement the GPS system by reporting (then improving) on the reliability and accuracy of those signals. MSAS is operated by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB). MSAS was commissioned for aviation use on 27 September 2007.^{[citation needed]}

Artist’s rendering of MSAT-1

The use of SBASs, such as MSAS, enables an individual GPS receiver to correct its own position, offering a much greater accuracy. Typically GPS signal accuracy is improved from some 20 meters to approximately 1.5–2 meters in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions.^[2]

Satellite Name & Details	NMEA / PRN	Location	Launched
MTSAT-1R (Himawari 6)[3]	NMEA #42 / PRN #129	140°E	26 February 2005
MTSAT-2 (Himawari 7)[4]	NMEA #50 / PRN #137	145°E	18 February 2006

MSAS provides a similar service to Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) in North America, European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) in Europe and System for Differential Corrections and Monitoring (SDCM) in Russia.

See also

• Multi-Functional Transport Satellite (MTSAT)
• Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS)