XM's first satellite, "Rock," was formally handed over to XM in mid-May by Boeing Satellite Systems and has begun broadcasting XM's channels as part of the preparation for XM's commercial launch later this summer. Both XM satellites will operate in geostationary orbit above the United States. By using two powerful satellites, each with the same nationwide coverage, XM will ensure maximum signal and system reliability. All three XM satellites -- "Rock," "Roll," and a spare in its final testing phase -- are Boeing 702 models, the most powerful commercial satellites ever made, manufactured by BSS.

XM also announced that technology innovator Dr. Stelios (Stell) J. Patsiokas, senior vice president for Technology, has been promoted to oversee all of XM's technology and engineering efforts. "Stell has done an amazing job completing the XM chipset and XM radio development working with all of our technology partners, and has been focusing his attention on preparing for commercial launch this summer," says XM CEO and president Hugh Panero. "Stell has extensive experience building out wireless infrastructures with Motorola, making him perfectly suited to assume these additional responsibilities." Dr. Patsiokas earned worldwide industry recognition during his 19-year tenure at Motorola for his technical expertise and leadership in designing, developing and implementing cutting-edge, wireless communication technology products, including the first synthesized scanning receiver, the first digital handset and the first two-way pager with an operating system. He is also an expert in radio frequency propagation and digital modulation. Dr. Patsiokas assumes his additional duties from satellite executive Jack Wormington, who recently moved to Boeing Satellite Systems (BSS) after successfully launching XM's constellation. At Boeing, Wormington will continue to monitor XM's satellite program. "The deployment of our satellites marks a new beginning for XM Radio and some of its employees," Panero says. "Jack Wormington, having successfully deployed "Rock" and "Roll," will be moving on to Boeing where he will be in charge of multiple satellite programs for BSS, bringing to bear his vast experience in satellite program management. He will help other BSS clients to literally get them off the ground as he did XM."

Link for more info: www.xmradio.com