More Channels For Astra

Astra is planning to launch a fourth satellite later this year, in Setptember or October. If this is successful, Astra could have 14 more channels on air by the end of the year. Old receiving equipment is not compatible however, and will either need new equipment or a converter box.

The main purpose of the fourth Astra satellite is to back up the existing three, but it does have spare channels. The decision to have 14 conventional satellite channels and only one or two digital channels reflects the lack of digital equipment on the market, and the high demand for conventional channels. Astra is planning a further two satellite launches next year and in 1996, and these will be given over mainly to digital stations.