Originally named Tempo2 - March 1997 (PrimeStar)
The satellite experienced solar flare after launch and its solar arrays have experienced problems. The satellite is said to suffer from "temporary power fluctuations". It is also claimed that the satellite was not operating normally before the solar flare. Up to 4 transponders might be out of order. Insurance paid $21 million.
TSAT did not accept the satellite (as of Nov 1997) since it is believed that only 85% of the design output power can be achieved. It the satellite is not usable, SS/L has 29 months to provide a replacement satellite.
Begin End Position
Mar 1997 Apr 1997 109.5°W
Apr 1997 Jun 2003 119°W
Jul 2003 Oct 2005 109.8°W
Nov 2005 Present 109.5°W, inclined (spare)