Navigation system's historical timeline

1983－Renowned Chinese scientists, headed by Chen Fangyun, propose to build an experimental dual-satellite positioning system.

1989－The concept of the experimental system is demonstrated and verified by two Chinese communications satellites operating in orbit.

February 1994－The government approves and begins research and development into a space-based navigation and positioning system aimed at easing the country's heavy reliance on foreign networks. The system is called "Beidou", named after the Big Dipper constellation.