SiriusXM's SXM-9 Satellite Begins Full Operation After Successful Testing

SiriusXM's SXM-9 Satellite Begins Full Operation After Successful Testing
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jan 30, 2025

SiriusXM and Maxar Space Systems announced today that the SXM-9 satellite has completed its in-orbit testing phase and is now fully operational. This milestone follows the successful launch of the satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on December 5, 2024.

"SiriusXM is committed to cutting-edge technology and enhancing the proprietary satellite delivery systems that help power our audio entertainment and information service offerings," said Bridget Neville, Senior Vice President and GM of Signal Distribution Engineering at SiriusXM. "The successful implementation of SXM-9 and expected launches of SXM-10, -11, and -12 will strengthen the health of our satellite fleet for decades to come and allow our team to continue innovating far into the future."

Maxar Space Systems is proud to be a key partner in supporting SiriusXM's mission. "At Maxar Space Systems, we take pride in partnering with innovative companies like SiriusXM that push the boundaries of what's possible," said Chris Johnson, CEO of Maxar Space Systems. "The Maxar 1300 platform is designed with mission adaptability and reliability in mind, making it an ideal choice for the requirements of SXM-9 and the upcoming SXM-10, -11, and -12 satellites. Maxar remains committed to delivering high-quality solutions that allow our customers to innovate and achieve their long-term objectives."

SXM-9 will provide continuous, reliable delivery of SiriusXM's audio entertainment and information services across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The satellite is the tenth high-powered, digital audio radio satellite built by Maxar for SiriusXM and is based on the Maxar 1300 platform. Standing more than 27 feet tall and extending over 100 feet when its solar arrays are deployed, SXM-9 weighed nearly 6,400 kg at launch. It also features a large unfurlable S-band reflector antenna supplied by L3Harris, which will ensure SiriusXM's programming reaches the approximately 167 million SiriusXM-equipped vehicles currently on the road.

Maxar Space Systems and SiriusXM previously announced that Maxar has been tasked with building the upcoming SXM-10, -11, and -12 satellites, with the launch of SXM-10 expected later this year.