Sky Expands Pre-Launch HDTV Line-Up

Satellite giant BSkyB is continuing to expand its high definition (HD) service, adding the National Geographic channel to its line-up ahead of the service’s launch in 2006.

National Geographic HD will offer Sky’s customers a range of content in vastly increased quality, with programmes covering natural history, wildlife, science and world exploration.

The channel will also broadcast shows such as Oceans of Glass, Earth Shock: Volcano and Megastructures with the added benefit of Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.

National Geographic HD is the first channel from a third party broadcaster to be added to Sky’s HD line-up of six wholly-owned channels. The broadcaster is continuing discussions with a number of other broadcasters, however, seeking to expand its HD portfolio ahead of launch next year.

Commenting on the expanded HD line-up, Brian Sullivan, Sky’s director of customer products and services said: “The clarity and vibrancy of HD is a perfect match for a National Geographic channel. Watching wildlife programmes in HD will transport you around the world and take you up close to some of nature’s most amazing creatures in more detail than ever before. We are excited to be able to bring customers such an outstanding addition to our HD channel line-up.”

George Jeffrey, National Geographic’s managing director Europe, added: “National Geographic Channel is a smart, contemporary channel and high definition provides the perfect environment to showcase our quality, factual TV offering to our growing audience.”

Sky’s HD service will be the first fully fledged offering of its kind in Britain, although the BBC has also announced plans to begin HD broadcasts on a trial basis next year, simulcasting highlights of BBC One’s peaktime schedule via satellite and cable (see BBC To Launch HDTV Trial On All Platforms Next Year).

Sky: 08702 40 40 40 www.sky.com