SiriusXM SXM-11

SiriusXM SXM-11 is a high-powered geostationary communications satellite built to strengthen and modernize SiriusXM’s satellite radio network across North America. The satellite was successfully launched on June 29, 2026 (UTC) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida.

Designed to provide reliable satellite radio services for millions of subscribers, SXM-11 is part of SiriusXM’s long-term fleet renewal program. The satellite replaces aging spacecraft while increasing the resilience and capacity of the company’s broadcasting network.

Satellite Overview

SXM-11 was built by Lanteris Space Systems (formerly Maxar Space Systems/Space Systems Loral) using the proven IM-1300 satellite platform. Weighing approximately 7.5 metric tons (15,000 pounds), it is one of the largest commercial communications satellites launched by SpaceX in 2026.

A key feature of the spacecraft is its nearly 10-meter (33-foot) deployable mesh reflector, which directs powerful S-band radio signals to vehicles, homes, and portable receivers throughout the United States, Canada, and surrounding regions. This large antenna enables SiriusXM to deliver reliable digital audioservices even to moving vehicles.

Launch of SXM-11

The SXM-11 mission lifted off at 02:25 UTC on June 29, 2026 (10:25 p.m. EDT on June 28) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 launch vehicle.

Launch Details

• Satellite: SiriusXM SXM-11
• Operator: SiriusXM
• Manufacturer: Lanteris Space Systems
• Launch Date: June 29, 2026 (UTC)
• Launch Vehicle: SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5
• Launch Site: Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40), Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida
• Destination Orbit: Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO)

Approximately 34½ minutes after liftoff, Falcon 9 successfully deployed SXM-11 into a geostationary transfer orbit, where the satellite began raising itself to its final geostationary operating position using its onboard propulsion system.

Falcon 9 Booster Recovery

As part of SpaceX’s reusable launch system, the Falcon 9 first-stage booster successfully returned to Earth after launch.

The booster, B1085, completed its 17th flight before landing on the autonomous drone ship A Shortfall of Gravitas stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. The successful recovery allows the booster to be refurbished and flown again on future missions.

SiriusXM Fleet Modernization

SXM-11 is the latest satellite in SiriusXM’s next-generation broadcast constellation. The spacecraft is designed to replace older satellites that have been operating in geostationary orbit for many years.

By deploying newer satellites with improved reliability and performance, SiriusXM continues to enhance:

• Nationwide satellite radio coverage
• Broadcast reliability
• Network redundancy
• Long-term service availability
• Capacity for future programming

The launch supports SiriusXM’s commitment to providing uninterrupted music, sports, news, entertainment, and talk programming to millions of subscribers across North America.

Mission Significance

The successful launch of SXM-11 represents another milestone in the long-standing partnership between SpaceX and SiriusXM. Falcon 9 has become the launch vehicle of choice for several SiriusXM satellites thanks to its proven reliability and reusable first-stage technology.

For SpaceX, the mission demonstrated once again the company’s ability to deliver heavy commercial communications satellites into geostationary transfer orbit while recovering the first-stage booster for future reuse.

SiriusXM SXM-11 Quick Facts

Conclusion

The launch of SiriusXM SXM-11 marks another important step in the modernization of SiriusXM’s satellite broadcasting network. By combining a high-capacity communications satellite with the proven performance of the SpaceX Falcon 9, the mission ensures reliable satellite radio coverage for millions of listeners across North America for years to come. The successful deployment of SXM-11 also highlights the continued evolution of reusable launch technology and next-generation geostationary communications satellites.