Satellite distribution of cable television programming has been a key element in the overall success of the industry. Conversely our continued success is reliant upon uninterrupted availability of adequate satellite capacity. Commercial domestic communications satellites generally have a 10 year lifetime. We are therefore given the opportunity from time to time to reflect on our experiences and make decisions about replacement satellite capacity. The cable industry is now at such a point in time. Decisions made now will be with us into the 21st century.