...are launching on the ASTRA Satellite System at the end of April. The two channels, Franken Fernsehen in Nuremberg and a.tv in Augsburg, were previously local part time programs and now extend their offer to full time. The channels will use former analog capacity on ASTRA as of April 30th, when broadcasters in Germany will switch off the analog satellite signals.

“The launch of two new channels on ASTRA is additional proof that digitalisation leads to further demand for the former analogue capacity,” said Wolfgang Elsaesser, Managing Director of ASTRA Germany. “It also shows that digitalisation is increasing the programme offer for viewers. Making unencrypted local content available throughout the whole country is a strength that only satellite can offer.”