Pradman Kaul of Hughes is the Via Satellite’s 2008 Satellite Executive of the Year, a well-deserved honor based on his efforts during the year. While six other nominees did not win the award, this does not diminish their accomplishments in 2008. And many of them could be in contention for 2009 if they can maintain their strong performances. The economic climate heading into 2009 does not look very favorable, so the next Satellite Executive of the Year already faces a daunting task, but there is little doubt that the 2009 field of nominees will be strong. Are there any early frontrunners?