SiriusXM Puts SXM-11 Satellite Into Service

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 15, 2026 | 10:40am CT

SiriusXM

SiriusXM has placed its new SXM-11 satellite into operational service following the completion of in-orbit testing and handover by Intuitive Machines. SXM-11 is the most powerful satellite in SiriusXM's high-powered fleet and is designed to improve signal reception, expand coverage in Alaska and support the company's satellite radio service across North America.

"Bringing SXM-11 into service strengthens our next-generation satellite fleet and reinforces the long-term resilience of our network," said SiriusXM Chief Product and Technology Officer Sean Gibbons. He said the satellite will help provide reliable in-vehicle coverage in areas where cellular service may be limited, while SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite delivery with streaming features including personalization and interactivity.

Built on Intuitive Machines' IM 1300 satellite platform, SXM-11 weighed more than 15,000 pounds at launch. It stands 28 feet tall and spans more than 106 feet with its solar panels deployed. Operating about 22,000 miles above Earth, the satellite uses a 30-foot unfurlable main-beam antenna to deliver audio and data across an estimated eight million square miles.

"SXM-11 marks another milestone in our longstanding partnership with SiriusXM," said Intuitive Machines President Chris Johnson. The companies have built 13 spacecraft together.

SXM-11 also carries an additional communications payload intended to provide expanded WCS-band coverage. SiriusXM uses its satellite network for Marine and Aviation services as well, delivering weather and other information directly to pilots and boaters.

The satellite was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 28. SiriusXM and Intuitive Machines subsequently completed commissioning and testing of the spacecraft and its communications systems.

SXM-11 is the 15th satellite launched for SiriusXM and will replace XM-5 as part of the company's ongoing fleet-refresh program. SXM-9 and SXM-10 entered service in 2025, while SXM-12 is scheduled for launch in 2027.