Particle.news
Download on the App Store

SpaceX Delivers SiriusXM’s 7.5‑Ton SXM‑11 to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit

SiriusXM will deploy SXM‑11 to replace aging satellites, improving signal reach and coverage in Alaska.

Overview

  • The Falcon 9 launched SXM‑11 from Cape Canaveral and deployed the roughly 15,000‑ to 15,400‑pound satellite to a geosynchronous transfer orbit during the June 28–29 launch window.
  • First‑stage booster B1085 completed its 17th flight and landed on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas about 8½ minutes after liftoff, underscoring SpaceX’s routine reuse of flight‑proven boosters.
  • SXM‑11 was built on the IM‑1300 bus by Lanteris Space Systems, now a subsidiary of Intuitive Machines following its January 2026 acquisition of the former Maxar business.
  • SiriusXM says the spacecraft is the most powerful in its fleet, holds about 60% of its ~7.5‑ton mass as propellant for transfer and station‑keeping, and will move from GTO to its geostationary slot to replace XM‑5 and Sirius FM‑5.
  • The new satellite is part of a multi‑satellite fleet refresh intended to boost signal reliability for U.S., Canadian and Caribbean subscribers and extend service in Alaska, and the launch reinforces demand for high‑cadence reusable launch services.