BBC Global News to launch in HD on Astra

BBC Global News has signed a deal with satellite operator SES to make its news channel available in HD across Europe from the 19.2° East position. 

The channel, an HD version of BBC World News in English, will be broadcast from toda on a multiplex operated and uplinked by SES from its HQ in Betzdord, Luxembourg.

“We are delighted that the BBC has chosen ASTRA 19.2E for the HD distribution of its premier international news channel,” said Ferdinand Kayser, Chief Commercial Officer of SES. “The momentum for HD has been rapidly increasing as more people appreciate the level of detail that HD delivers. High Definition means clearer, crisper pictures that are more vivid in colour – they can be as much as five times more detailed than standard definition.”

“We know from our viewers that they value HD services. BBC World News originates in pure HD, so it’s fantastic to be able to bring this service to our European heartland,” said Colin Lawrence, Director of Distribution for BBC Global News Ltd. “Following the investments we made in our content and presentation on BBC World News, last year we saw an audience increase in daily reach. HD is undoubtedly becoming the default viewing preference, and this new partnership enables delivery of our world class service to European audiences.”