GlobeCast, SES ASTRA Team For Ethnic Programming

SES Astra and GlobeCast are increasing the opportunities for ethnic channels to make an impact in Spain and France. The two operators have announced an agreement today to enable channel providers to gain access to more 10 million digital Astra direct-to-home (DTH) homes in Europe. “Our partnership will benefit broadcasters by offering a one-hop global package to reach Astra viewers in Spain and in France from anywhere in the world,” commented Christian Pinon, president and CEO of GlobeCast.

The partners will offer access via the to the Astra Satellite System at 19.2 degrees East to multicultural TV channels. The GlobeCast satellite multiplex located in Madrid and linked to GlobeCast’s worldwide ATM fiber ring will help ensure secured access to the Astra platform.

Astra currently broadcasts over 130 digital TV channels plus another 100 digital radio stations that can be received free-to-air with a simple dish antenna pointed at Astra 19.2 degrees East; and a simple, affordable digital satellite receiver.