SXM‑8: SiriusXM’s Digital Audio Radio Satellite (June 2021 Launch)

Overview & Purpose

SXM‑8 is a high-power S-band communications satellite built by Maxar Technologies (formerly Space Systems/Loral) on the 1300-class platform. As the ninth satellite in SiriusXM’s digital audio radio constellation, SXM‑8 supports uninterrupted satellite radio delivery—including music, news, sports, and talk—to millions of receivers across North America, Canada, and the Caribbean .

Launch & Deployment

• Launch Date: June 6, 2021, at 04:26 UTC
• Launch Vehicle: SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 from SLC‑40, Cape Canaveral SFS
• Booster: B1061 flew its 18th mission and landed successfully
• Orbit: Inserted into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO); maneuvered into geostationary orbit (~22,300 mi altitude) over 85° W longitude

Satellite Features

• Platform: Maxar 1300-class, ~6,400–7,000 kg at launch
• Power: Over 20 kW from twin solar arrays
• Antenna: Massive~10 m mesh reflector, enabling reception in moving vehicles without bulky ground equipment
• Service Life: Designed for 15+ years of reliable broadcasting

Operational Status & Importance

After completing in-orbit testing in July 2021, SXM‑8 joined active service to reinforce SiriusXM’s satellite network, ensuring broadcast reliability in light of previous satellite failures like SXM‑7. It replaced aging satellites XM‑3/XM‑4 and strengthened coverage in Canada and the Caribbean.