Sirius Satellite Radio: Radio entertainment in the sky

Satellite broadcasting of radio programs is an effective means of serving large and distributed markets. A space-based radio system can provide about 100 high quality music, voice, and data channels to users spread over a vast geographic area. Employing digital technology and an elaborate system design, this approach significantly outperforms traditional AM and FM radio broadcasting in signal quality, program quantity, and service availability. Motorists can enjoy their program of choice uninterrupted driving coast to coast. There are two providers of satellite radio in the USA: Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio. Both systems are expected to be fully operational in 2002. This paper will offer an overview of satellite radio and will introduce the Sirius Satellite Radio network. Field trial results including performance data and propagation characteristics will be discussed. It will be shown that satellite radio seamlessly serves both urban and rural areas.