[Satellite TODAY 09-07-10] Intelsat is expanding Russian DTH satellite provider Orion Express’ programming capacity on the Intelsat 15 satellite (IS-15), the operator announced.
    Orion signed a new multi-year, multi-transponder contract with Intelsat, to enable the broadcaster to distribute news, sports, entertainment and children’s programming for its new satellite platform, Continent TV, which generated approximately 100,000-subscribers within three months of its service launch.
    “The success of Orion Express demonstrates IS-15’s ability to be one of the region’s leading DTH distribution satellites. Intelsat has already developed a strong position in Russia’s data sector and is committed to further strengthening its media service offering in the region. DTH programming in Russia remains a strong growth market for satellite providers and Continent TV’s success represents a significant milestone for Intelsat in the region,” said Jean-Philippe Gillet, Intelsat’s regional vice president of Europe and Middle East, in a statement.
    IS-15, launched in November 2009 and located at the 85 degrees East orbital slot, provides video and data services through its high power Ku-band payload.