Dish Network launches satellite to expand HD channels

by Jeff Chabot on March 21, 2010

Dish Network has successfully launched its latest satellite EchoStar XIV to increase HD channel offerings in the US. The satco says it currently offers over 160 HD channels (claiming most in the industry) and the new satellite will enable them to expand to over 200 channels (a number recently thrown around by DirecTV).

“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 line-up to well over 200 channels.”

The launch of EchoStar XIV on Mar. 20 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan brings Dish Network’s total in-orbit satellite count to 15, which Dish says is the most in the industry. You’ll be able to see video of the launch on dish.com starting Monday, Mar. 22.

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