Room for extra HD channels???

[Poonzilla]

I recently emailed Directv regarding when the local channels in my area (central Illinois) would be availible. Evidently they launched a new satellite earlier this year.(the fourth?) Might explain the 2 dish claim in a post on the DBStalk thread.

Below is a copy of the email I recieved:

Dear Eric,

Thanks for writing. We have great news! On May 4, 2004, we successfully
launched our new satellite which gives us the additional satellite
capacity to offer local channels in more cities, including the
Champaign-Springfield-Decatur IL area. It takes about a month to test
and get the satellite ready for service, so we expect to have your local
channels available within 2004. However, until the satellite has been
fully deployed and tested, we can't tell you a specific date and the
equipment.

We should be able to tell you more specific dates very soon, so please
keep checking DIRECTV channel 999. In september, you can also look for
the press releases and media announcements in your area.

Thanks again for writing and stay tuned to DIRECTV.com for the latest
news and information about our services. We look forward to bringing you
your local channels.

Sincerely,

Ritu
DIRECTV Customer Service