WorldSpace May Delay AmeriStar Launch

Satellite broadcaster WorldSpace is facing revenue woes and may delay the launch of its third satellite, AmeriStar, beyond 2002, according to Satellite News/PBI Media. WorldSpace offers satellite digital radio service to Africa, Asia and parts of the Middle East. It differs from U.S.-based XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio in that it’s focusing on home and portable satellite digital radio receivers, not mobile as XM and Sirius are. Satellite News reports WorldSpace is seeking new financial backing as receiver uptake is slow, pegged at about 150,000 units.