[Satellite Today 07-01-09] SES Astra signed a transponder deal with BSkyB to provide 24 transponders on a long-term basis at Astra’s 28.2 degrees East orbital position, SES announced June 30.
    BSkyB has more than 9 million subscribers and more than 1 million subscribers t its high-definition services in the United Kingdom and Ireland. In total, Sky is now using 31 transponders on the Astra satellite system.
    “Our relationship with Astra has been long and fruitful and our decision to renew our commitment is based on a belief in satellite’s ongoing ability to deliver quality services, like HD, on a scalable and nationwide basis,” Mike Darcey, BSkyB’s COO, said in a statement.
    Financial details of the contract were not disclosed.