SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon 9 launches SiriusXM SXM-9 satellite
On December 5, 2024, SpaceX launched a new Falcon 9 rocket mission to orbit including SiriusXM SXM-9 satellite payload. The mission succeeded when the rocket maker deployed the sat into a geosynchronous transfer orbit.
The new SXM-9 is a communication satellite for SiriusXM to help improve connectivity. The company provides services to more than 150 million SiriusXM-powered vehicles using its satellite network.
These satellites stream services using the 360L platform, ensuring unhindered coverage across the US and Canada. SiriusXM also offers satellite-based marine and Aviation services for pilots and boaters with weather data and information to their cockpits.
The SXM-9 is part of SirusXM’s growing satellites built by Maxar. It has been building satellites for the company for more than 20 years including the first-gen SAT launched in 2000, second-gen Sirus sat in 2009 and 2013. The third-gen satellites deployed in 2021 and more are still in development.
The Falcon 9 lifted off with its Marline engines from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visuals shared online show that the weather was quite supportive for this mission as the rocket cleared the launch pad.
Liftoff of SXM-9! pic.twitter.com/buCmhClcFN
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 5, 2024
First stage
After sending the second stage to the upper atmosphere, the first stage boostback to return to Earth. This was the 19th flight for the booster, which previously supported CRS-26, OneWeb Launch 16, Intelsat IS-40e, 03B mPOWER, Ovzon 3, Eutelsat 36D, Turksat 6A, Maxar 2, and 10 Starlink missions.
Falcon 9 landing confirmed, marking the 100th time a first stage booster has landed on the Just Read the Instructions droneship and our 380th successful recovery overall pic.twitter.com/yyoNjHXZfs
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 5, 2024
After firing the final burn, the rocket expanded its landing legs and landed on the Just Read the Instructions droneship. It marked the 100th time a first-stage booster landed on this specific droneship and SpaceX’s 380th overall recovery.
Deployment of SXM-9 confirmed pic.twitter.com/S1mblOkQ9I
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 5, 2024
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