The satellite is owned by and will be operated by PanAmSat Corporation. Sky Mexico's direct-to-home (DTH) platform will use a dozen Ku-band transponders on the spacecraft for the digital delivery of more than 160 DTH television channels directly to homes. PAS-9 will replace PAS-5 at 58°W. PanAmSat will use PAS-5 to provide additional services in the Atlantic Ocean Region until its end of life in 2010.

The 3,660 kg  (8,067 lbm) satellite, a Hughes Space & Communications Company HS 601 HP, will provide broadcast and general communications services with 24 C-band and 24 Ku-band transponders for the Americas, the Caribbean and western Europe. The satellite has a 15 year life expectancy.