More Satellites Mean Better Programming from Echostar's Dish Network
Since its humble beginnings in 1995, Echostar had been able to launch 3 FSS-Ku satellites and 10 commercial satellites to offer the best TV programming for its subscribers. Their vision, however, doesn’t end there.
Pending Satellite Applications with the FCC
BSS “Reverse DBS” Satellites
Echostar' Dish Network had applied for construction of several BSS “Reverse DBS” satellites and its consequent launches for orbital locations 61.9° W.L., 77.2° W.L., 110° W.L., 114.5° W.L., and 119° W.L.
BSS Band Satellite
Echostar is currently awaiting approval for the launch of its BSS Band satellite with orbital location of 86.5° W.L.
FSS-Ka Satellite
The company also has pending applications for the construction and launches of a number of FSS-Ka satellites for orbital locations of 97° W.L., 113° W.L., and 125° W.L.
What is Reverse DBS?
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission or FCC recently proposed to open up a new radio spectrum, particularly those in the ranges of 17.3 to 17.7 gigahertz and 24.75 to 35.35 gigahertz. It is referred to as the reverse DBS band as its opening would permit uplinking in frequency ranges that are presently utilized for DBS downlinking and vice versa. When the proposal pushes through, the new spectrum would allow satellite TV companies such as Echostar to construct new satellites as well as expand their services to broadband access.
Reverse DBS could lead to the creation of groundbreaking satellite services. Analysts also agree that Echostar and DirecTV would have the most to enjoy with the opening of reverse DBS band. The new range would give the companies the opportunity to bundle broadband Internet access together with their satellite TV subscription packages.
As far as satellite manufacturers are concerned, however, opinion is so far divided. Arianspace Inc. President Clay Mowry believes that “five to 10 satellites over the next five years” could be constructed if plans push through. Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems spokeswoman Dee Valleras, however, says that the proposal “certainly has the potential” but feels “it’s just too soon to speculate”.
Analysts however are of the same mind in saying that the opening of a new spectrum would be unlikely to lead to new entrants in the market.
Rulings for the proposed spectrum are still in the works. The FCC had expressed its desire for satellite broadcasters to give their two cents on drafting rules for the new band. As for Echostar/Dish Network, the company had been made to limit its applications in accordance with the May 4th 2007 ruling that required a company to have no more than five applications for reverse DBS.
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DIRECTV transmits digital satellite signals to households across the United States as well as Latin America. For subscribers in Alabama & Hawaii, these subscribers must maintain a different type of satellite dish.
Dish Network offers its subscribers a large package base to choose from. With local programming only an additional $5 a month and no additional equipment required to view this programming, subscribers are happy to maintain their neighborhood broadcasts.
As a television viewer, we recognize the importance of having local channel programming. With a new satellite TV subscription, the importance and ease of finding a provider who offers local channel programming is atop a priority list for new subscribers.
