Sirius Satellite Radio, previously expected to launch its commercial service by the end of the year, is doing more testing and is looking for a new chief executive.

Sirius announced this week that at the end of the month, it will expand in-vehicle testing of its service to six additional markets. This phase is the final element of Sirius' comprehensive test program, after which the company expects to determine its commercial launch date, which had previously been scheduled for year-end.
Sirius also announced that David Margolese has stepped down as chief executive officer. The duties of CEO will be assumed, on an interim basis, by an Office of the Chief Executive consisting of John J. Scelfo, senior vice president and chief financial officer, and Patrick L. Donnelly, senior vice president and general counsel. Margolese, who said it was "time to pass the baton," will remain as non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sirius.
An intensive search for a new CEO is being conducted by the Board. The new CEO will complete Sirius' final transition from a development stage enterprise to an entertainment company that is attempting to revolutionize radio.
From its tri-satellite system orbiting directly over the U.S., Sirius will broadcast up to 100 channels of digital quality radio to motorists throughout the continental United States for a monthly subscription fee of $12.95. Sirius will deliver 50 channels of commercial-free music in virtually every genre, and up to 50 channels of news, sports, talk, comedy and children's programming.
A similar, competing service, XM Satellite Radio, recently launched its service in the Dallas/Fort Worth and San Diego markets, with plans to go nationwide in November.