Dish Network successfully launched a satellite today that will eventually deliver more HiDef channels to subscribers.
EchoStar XIV allows Dish to expand its HD offerings from the current 160 HiDef national networks in addition to HiDef local channels in 152 markets.
Today’s launch brings the size of Dish Network’s satellite constellation to 15 – the largest fleet in the industry. Built by Space Systems/Loral, EchoStar XIV launched on an International Launch Services Proton/Breeze M vehicle from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 2:27 p.m. ET on Saturday, March 20. After a nine-hour, 10-minute mission, EchoStar XIV was successfully released into geosynchronous transfer orbit. The satellite will ultimately reside at 119 degrees West longitude at an altitude of 22,000 miles.
“DISH Network continues to launch new satellites to remain at the forefront of multi-channel video programming,” said Tom Cullen, executive vice president of Sales, Marketing and Programming for DISH Network. “We look forward to extending our industry-leading HD lineup to well over 200 channels.”