SES ASTRA has announced the signature of a long term contract for the broadcast of MTVNHD, MTV Networks High Definition, in France. MTVNHD is the first international high definition service dedicated to music and children in France.

It will be broadcast 24-hours from ASTRA's prime orbital position at 19.2 degrees East, and allows the TV viewers who subscribe to the HD option of CanalSat to benefit from an enhanced music experience.

With MTVNHD, the number of HD channels distributed on the ASTRA Satellite System increases to 58, thereby reinforcing ASTRA's position as the most important HDTV platform in Europe, including HD channels from leading pay-TV bouquets and the biggest public broadcasters.

By the end of 2010, SES ASTRA expects to transmit around 100 HD channels.

Alexander Oudendijk, Chief Commercial Officer of SES ASTRA, said: "We are very pleased that MTV Networks continues the development of its HD programme via ASTRA. With the launch of MTVNHD in France, ASTRA further improves its impressive HD channel line-up and continues to build a very attractive neighbourhood on its main orbital positions."