Sea Launch is preparing for the launch of XM Satellite Radio?s XM-3 satellite (aka "Rhythm"), and they've just given us some juicey info and pics to chew on while we wait for the live webcast. Considering the Mission Schedule, the speculation is that the launch should occur in the next two weeks.

Sea Launch's page is chock full of info on the whole launch (I love the prep pics), but if you want a run down here it is:

Propelling the XM-3 digital radio broadcast satellite into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit will be the Zenit-3SL launch vehicle. The Zenit-3SL will liftoff from Sea Launch's Odyssey Launch Platform, which just happens to be positioned on the Equator.

Two-and-a-half minutes after liftoff, the first stage will separate and then the payload fairing will jettison. About five minutes later, the second stage will separate from the Block DM upper stage. After the first burn of the Block DM engine, the spacecraft will coast for about 35 minutes. Following this coast, the Block DM will make a second burn and then separate from the spacecraft about 14 minutes later, above the coast of Gabon, Africa.

Built by Boeing Satellite Systems, the 702-model spacecraft will augment the existing XM satellite system. XM got approval to launch XM-3 on January 27. XM-4 is planned to launch sometime in 2007.

Thanks candlebougie!