Unlike XM, SIRIUS Satellite Radiodoes not use GEO satellites. Instead, its three SS/L-1300 satellites form an inclined elliptical satellite constellation. SIRIUS says the elliptical path of its satellite constellation ensures that each satellite spends about 16 hours a day over the continental United States, with at least one satellite over the country at all times.
SIRIUS completed its three-satellite constellation on November 30, 2000. A fourth satellite will remain on the ground, ready to be launched if any of the three active satellites encounter transmission problems.
The SIRIUS Satellite Radio system is similar to that of XM satellite radio. Programs are beamed to one of the three Sirius satellites, which then transmits the signal to the ground, where your radio receiver picks up one of the channels within the signal. Signals are also beamed to ground repeaters for listeners in urban areas where the satellite signal can be interrupted.
SIRIUS offers car radios and home entertainment systems, as well as car and home kits for portable use. The Sirius receiver includes two parts -- the antenna module and the receiver module.
The antenna module picks up signals from the ground repeaters or the satellite, amplifies the signal and filters out any interference. SIRIUS also offers an adapter that allows conventional car radios to receive satellite signals.
The SIRIUS Satellite Radio
SIRIUS offers car radios and home entertainment systems, as well as car and home kits for portable use. The Sirius receiver includes two parts -- the antenna module and the receiver module.
The antenna module picks up signals from the ground repeaters or the satellite, amplifies the signal and filters out any interference. SIRIUS also offers an adapter that allows conventional car radios to receive satellite signals. 