MUMBAI: European DTH service operator SES Astra has signed a capacity agreement with Penthouse Digital Media Productions Inc. for a second Penthouse 3D channel on ASTRA 23.5 degrees East (11778.00MHz) for the encrypted distribution to TV platform providers across Europe.

Penthouse 3D is the first worldwide 3D adult channel, A first 3D channel from Penthouse started on Astra 23.5 degrees East in March this year. In the meantime, Penthouse has concluded distribution agreements for its 3D channels with French IPTV provider Free and Turkish DTH provider Digiturk, while further agreements are expected shortly.
 
 
 
 
 
SES chief commercial officer Ferdinand Kayser said, "We are very pleased with the signing of the second Penthouse 3D channel on ASTRA, confirming our leading position in the 3D television market. Furthermore, it is another boost for the development of ASTRA 23.5 East as Europe’s fastest growing neighbourhood for both Direct-To-Home and Direct-to-Cable distribution."
FriendFinder Networks CEO Marc Bell said, "We are excited about adding another channel to the Penthouse 3D line-up on Astra. Working with SES Astra fits very well with our ambition to be the leader in technology and we will continue to provide consumers with a variety of options of new content on the world’s best platforms."

Including the two Penthouse 3D channels, Astra currently distributes seven 3D channels via its satellites. Other channels include Sky 3D channels for UK and Germany, Canal+ 3D in France, Viasat 3D in Scandinavia and Brava3D. In addition, SES Astra has launched a 3D demo channel featuring high quality 3D for the retail market.