Blasted into orbit in June, a new satellite built by Maxar Space Systems is now operational for SiriusXM. The satellite will strength its coverage across North America and the Caribbean.
According to the two companies, the SXM-10 satellite completed its in-orbit testing. It was launched by a SpaceX Falcon rocket on June 7. The mission to deploy the satellite cost approximately $69 million, according to SatNews.
SXM-10 is the 11th satellite built by Maxar Space for SiriusXM and the second new satellite to commence service for the media provider this year. Its SXM-9 satellite began service in January.
Built on the Maxar 1300 platform, SXM-10 is approximately 27 feet tall and 100 feet long with its solar arrays deployed. It weighed approximately 6,600 kg at launch.
In addition, the satellite includes an unfurlable S-band reflector antenna supplied by L3Harris.
SiriusXM and Maxar Space previously announced that Maxar Space has been commissioned to build the SXM-11 and -12 satellites for SiriusXM. Those programs are ongoing with launches expected in 2026 and 2027, respectively.
As a result of this year’s deployments, the satellites will help its programming reach approximately 175 million SXM-equipped vehicles on the road, SiriusXM said.
SiriusXM said it has four satellites actively delivering its service in total.
