[Satellite Today 05-29-09] Sirius XM’s new FM series satellite arrived at International Launch Services’ (ILS) Baikonur facility for a scheduled launch in June or July, ILS announced May 28.
    Sirius FM-5, based on Space Systems/Loral’s LS-1300 platform, has a power output of 20 kilowatts and a 9-meter reflector dish – technology intended to increase signal performance with smaller receiver devices, according to Sirius XM.
    Sirius has three active satellites and plans on replacing one per year through 2012.
    In February, ILS won a contract to launch Sirius FM-6, under construction at Space Systems/Loral. Sirius-FM6 is scheduled to launch in the fourth quarter of 2010.