New channels on SES Astra

Two new Bavarian free-to-air TV channels are launching on the Astra satellite platform at the end of April.

The two channels, Franken Fernsehen in Nuremberg and a.tv in Augsburg, were previously local part time programmes and are now extending their offer to full time. The channels will use former analogue capacity on Astra as of April 30, when broadcasters in Germany will switch off the analogue 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.”