why does signal strength vary? home install, no obstruction

[satsj]

I really want Sirius to work but with the frequent audio dropouts due to a lost signal, I don't think I can justify $13/month. I have my home antenna on the roof and there's no obstruction. The weather has not been severe yet the signal goes from full to nothing several times throughout the day. I emailed Sirius about this and heard nothing until I received a link to a survey; they want to know how I'd rate their customer service!

Are the frequent drop outs normal? Perhaps most don't see this as a problem but I'm used to satellite TV which rarely loses the signal.

Thanks,

satsj

[LDCravey]

Sirius Satellite Radio has 3 satellites (named Sirius 1, 2 & 3) that track across North America in elliptical orbits. They also lease transponder time on another geostationary satellite that basically remains stationary.

Normally at least two (elliptical orbit) Sirius satellites are able to transmit to North America at any time. As one satellite gets further away, another satellite is just starting a new pass over North America. The Sirius satellites are in view of North America approximately 18 hours per day.

The geostationary satellite is used by local repeaters in the larger cities. Sirius receives this geostationary satellite signal along with the signals from one or two of the elliptical satelllites and rebroadcasts the signals to terrestrial repeaters in the larger cities.

Yes, your signal can vary as the satellites track across the sky. Relocate your home antenna so that it is not blocked from horizon to horizon in any direction. If you do this, your signal should be maintained even though the signal strength may vary.