Full Breakdown
SpaceX Launches SiriusXM’s SXM-11 Satellite in a Constellation Refresh
6/29/2026, 11:32:09 AM
Background and Context
SiriusXM’s satellite radio fleet, based on the XM-5 and Sirius FM-5 satellites launched in 2009-2010, is being refreshed with SXM-8 (2021), SXM-9 (2024), SXM-10 (2025) and SXM-11, all on SpaceX rockets, extending service through 2040.
Key Participants
SpaceX used Falcon 9 booster B1085 (its 17th flight, 158th landing). SiriusXM’s satellite was built by Lanteris Space Systems, an Intuitive Machines subsidiary acquired in January 2026 for $800 million. The 45th Weather Squadron issued the launch forecast.
Launch and Mission Profile
On 28 June 2026 at 10:25 p.m. EDT (02:25 UTC), the Falcon 9 lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40, Cape Canaveral, placing SXM-11 into an elliptical geosynchronous transfer orbit 34.5 minutes later; the first stage landed on the drone ship *A Shortfall of Gravitas* 8.5 minutes after liftoff.
Satellite Specifications
SXM-11 uses the IM-1300 bus, stands 230 ft (70.1 m) tall, and extends solar panels to 106 ft (32.3 m). About 60 % of its 7.5-ton mass is fuel. It aims to improve signal reception, expand Alaska coverage, and support audio services across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.
Official Statements
SiriusXM’s LinkedIn post called SXM-11 the powerful satellite in its fleet and said it will enhance signal reception, expand Alaska coverage and support audio services across North America and the Caribbean. The 45th Weather Squadron forecast an 80 % chance of favorable weather at launch, rising to 90 % later.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After years of planning, engineering, testing, and collaboration, SXM-11 is set to launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and begin its journey to orbit,” — SiriusXM, LinkedIn post
- “As the most powerful high-powered satellite in SiriusXM’s fleet, SXM-11 will help enhance signal reception, expand coverage in Alaska, and support the delivery of audio entertainment and information services across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean.” — SiriusXM, LinkedIn post
- “Flow aloft will be weak and variable, supporting daily storm motions that will be seabreeze and outflow dependent. This erratic nature of storm motion is more evident in today’s model runs, suggesting a higher risk of storms lingering closer to the coast later into the night,” — 45th Weather Squadron launch officers
- “However, remnant storms and clouds should slowly diminish as the night wears on during both the primary and backup launch opportunities.” — 45th Weather Squadron launch officers
Why It Matters
SXM-11 sustains SiriusXM’s service in remote Alaska and keeps its radio-broadcast capabilities competitive. Replacing two satellites over a decade old reduces interruption risk and modernizes the fleet.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Source 1 lists the weight as “about 15,000 lb (7.5 t),” while Source 3 cites “15,400 lb (7,000 kg).” Source 3 also mistakenly gives a deployment date of 28 June 2025, contradicting the confirmed 2026 launch. No criticism or cost details appear.
What’s Next
After deployment, SXM-11 will raise its orbit to a geostationary slot and join SiriusXM’s seven-satellite fleet. It is expected to operate for decades, complementing SXM-10, which should serve until 2040.
