Europe-wide satellite radio for drivers could be available soon The European Space Agency (ESA) is investigating the possibility of providing in-car Europe-wide satellite car radio, along with text, pictures and video data, using second-hand satellites. The proposal involves reusing existing TV satellites nearing the end of their operatin... The European Space Agency (ESA) is investigating the possibility of providing in-car Europe-wide satellite car radio, along with text, pictures and video data, using second-hand satellites. The proposal involves reusing existing TV satellites nearing the end of their operating life, instead of the more expensive option of launching new satellites. Onboard thrusters keep TV satellites pointing directly at Earth-based receivers. However, once the thrusters' propellant runs out, the satellites drift out of correct orbit, and can no longer be used for TV broadcast applications. TV satellites with a low propellant could, however, be used for digital radio broadcasting, for which precision position control is less important as vehicle-mounted digital radio antennas could keep track of the satellite as it moves. The life of the satellites could thus be extended by five years. 'This service would include music and voice data,' said ESA engineer Rolv Midthassel. 'Plus additional data could be displayed on screen such as information on songs, traffic and weather forecasts, and other services dedicated to car drivers.' As satellite reception is frequently interrupted by trees, rain or cloud, or even blocked by permanent structures, real time broadcasting would not be possible. Instead, the service would operate on a cache system, data files being stored by the receiver for later play back. 'The receiver cache will contain files like songs, news flashes and discussion programmes,' said Mr Midthassel. 'Based on a pre-set user profile, an individually tailored radio programme cold be constructed out of available files.' The next step will be the design of a low cost electronically steerable antenna as well as a gateway transmitter and user receiver.
