# XM-3

> satellite radio communications satellite operated by SiriusXM

**Wikidata**: [Q18327684](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18327684)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/xm-3

## Summary
XM-3 is a communications satellite operated by SiriusXM that provides satellite radio services. Launched on March 1, 2005, it is an active artificial satellite designed for telecommunications and is also known by the alias "Rhythm."

## Key Facts
- **Operator:** Sirius XM
- **Manufacturer:** Boeing
- **Launch Date:** March 1, 2005
- **Launch Vehicle:** Zenit-3SL (an expendable carrier rocket)
- **Spacecraft Bus:** Boeing 702
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 28626
- **COSPAR ID:** 2005-008A
- **Start Point:** Odyssey (launch platform)
- **Aliases:** XM3, Rhythm
- **Classification:** Communications satellite

## FAQs
### Q: Who manufactured the XM-3 satellite?
A: XM-3 was manufactured by Boeing and is built on the Boeing 702 spacecraft bus.

### Q: When and how was XM-3 launched?
A: XM-3 was launched on March 1, 2005, from the Odyssey platform using a Zenit-3SL carrier rocket.

### Q: What is the current status of XM-3?
A: XM-3 is currently classified as an active communications satellite used for satellite radio.

### Q: Does XM-3 have any other names?
A: Yes, the satellite is also referred to as XM3 or by its alias, Rhythm.

## Why It Matters
XM-3 serves as a vital component of the SiriusXM infrastructure, enabling the delivery of satellite radio communications. As an active communications satellite, it facilitates the transmission of telecommunications data necessary for digital radio broadcasting. Its deployment involved the use of specialized aerospace technology, including the Boeing 702 spacecraft bus and the Zenit-3SL expendable carrier rocket. The satellite represents a significant asset in the field of commercial satellite operations, maintaining a constant role in the telecommunications landscape since its launch in 2005. By providing consistent signal coverage, it supports the operational requirements of SiriusXM's broadcast network.

## Notable For
- **Spacecraft Architecture:** Built on the Boeing 702 bus, a specific platform designed for high-power telecommunications.
- **Unique Alias:** Formally recognized by the secondary name "Rhythm" within the SiriusXM fleet.
- **Sea-Based Launch:** Launched from the Odyssey platform, utilizing the Zenit-3SL rocket for orbital insertion.
- **Longevity:** Has remained an active instance of a communications satellite since its 2005 launch date.

## Body

### Technical Profile
XM-3 is a high-power communications satellite manufactured by Boeing. It utilizes the Boeing 702 spacecraft bus, a standard architecture for telecommunications satellites. The satellite is identified in tracking databases by the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 28626 and the COSPAR ID 2005-008A.

### Launch and Deployment
The satellite was successfully launched on March 1, 2005. The mission utilized the following components:
*   **Launch Vehicle:** Zenit-3SL, a member of the Zenit rocket family designed for launching satellites.
*   **Start Point:** The launch took place from the Odyssey platform.
*   **Significant Event:** The rocket launch is recorded as the primary event establishing the satellite's orbital presence.

### Operations and Classification
XM-3 is operated by SiriusXM and is categorized as an active communications satellite. Its primary function is the facilitation of satellite radio communications. While its official designation is XM-3, it is frequently documented under the aliases XM3 and Rhythm. The entity is indexed in global knowledge databases, including the Google Knowledge Graph (ID: /g/11b5v3q2vq) and the Wolfram Language (Entity: 28626).

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report