[Satellite TODAY 12-06-10] The Sirius XM-5 satellite is ready for service, Sirius XM Radio announced Dec. 3.
    The operator said that it completed all orbit-raising, deployments and in-orbit tests for the satellite, located at 85.2 degrees West. The satellite, built by Space Systems/Loral and launched on an International Launch Services (ILS) Proton Rocket in October, will serve as an in-orbit spare for the Sirius XM satellite fleet.
    “XM-5 will help ensure continuous and reliable delivery of service to millions of customers across North America and is intended to bolster the reliability and longevity of our satellite fleet for many years to come,” Sirius XM Chief Engineer Terry Smith said in a statement.