
Sirius FM5 (Radiosat 5) [SSL]
Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) announced in June 2006 that it has been chosen by Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. to build Sirius FM-5, a powerful new geostationary satellite for use in its satellite radio service.
Sirius FM-5 is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2008 and will carry an X-band uplink and S-band downlink payload. The satellite will be one of the most powerful ever constructed, with end-of-life power capability at more than 20 kilowatts. Sirius FM-5 is based on SS/L's flight proven and reliable LS-1300 platform and will have a specified service life of 15 years. It will carry a range of technologies, including a 9-meter unfurlable reflector, which will allow for highly-concentrated transmissions to small, advanced devices.
As part of its commitment to Sirius, Loral has agreed to provide to Sirius a vendor financing facility of up to $100 million.
The satellite will supplement from its geostationary position the three other Sirius satellites in highly elliptical orbits, all manufactured by SS/L.
| Nation: | USA |
|---|---|
| Type / Application: | Communication (Direct radio broadcasting) |
| Operator: | Sirius Satellite Radio |
| Contractors: | Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) |
| Equipment: | 1 X/S-band transponder |
| Configuration: | LS-1300 |
| Propulsion: | R-4D, 4 SPT-100 plasma thrusters |
| Power: | 2 deployable solar arrays, batteries |
| Lifetime: | 15 years |
| Mass: | 5840 kg |
| Orbit: | GEO |
| Satellite | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sirius FM5 (Radiosat 5) | 30.06.2009 | TB LC-200/39 | Proton-M Briz-M (Ph.2) |