Sirius Satellite Radio will debut Howard Stern programming in September, with a likely date of September 29 when the satcaster undergoes its annual channel tweaking. Channel 100 will be the home of the newly created Stern programmed content, with channel 101 also designated for Stern's creative outlet on Sirius.

Stern's official debut date is January 9, 2006, according to a statement he made on his syndicated morning program today. If something happens that frees Stern from his Infinity Broadcasting contract prior to the official start date, he has said he would appear on Sirius the following day, but would not fully launch his program until the new year.

Stern's contract prevents him from appearing on-air at Sirius until January 2006, but that isn't stopping the launch of his channel.

"We are busy planning the launch of the channel," said Stern this morning. "I am busy planning all kinds of events that go on the channel without me. I have started producing a sound for the channel."

Stern said he was in a meeting yesterday (8/23) with a number of Sirius execs, including President of Entertainment & Sports Scott Greenstein, EVP for Programming Jay Clark and VP Talk & Entertainment Programming Jeremy Coleman discussing the content and programming ideas for the show.

"My energy level is through the roof and I'm excited about it," said Stern. "It's something new and exciting and unique and it allows me to do what I love doing."

As for content on channel 100 when it launches, no details on specifics have been released by Sirius, but Stern has mentioned there will be an appearance by his parents and several Wack Pack members as the channel gears up for Stern's official arrival.