DirecTV's New High-Definition Satellites Go Up

June 1, 2005

The first of DirecTV’s four new satellites was successfully launched on a Russian Proton rocket on May 22. This "DirecTV 8" satellite, and a second satellite to be launched later this month, will enable DirecTV to provide local network high-definition programming to twelve major TV markets later this year.

The second satellite--the "Spaceway F2"--will be launched on the European Ariane rocket from French Guiana in South America. Both satellites must undergo a period of testing and relocation before they can be put into service.

Link to our Satellite section for more information about DirecTV's high-definition service.