by Virgil Labrador, Editor-in-Chief
From 2005 to 2008, the number of direct-to-home (DTH) satellite platforms grew over 49% from 65 to 97 platforms worldwide, according to estimates by Euroconsult. At least 10 new DTH platforms were announced in 2008. Despite this dramatic growth in DTH platforms, the industry is facing pressure to reduce costs in the current global economic environment in order to maintain and expand its subscriber base and to meet investor expectations for returns. Growth in demand for content also drives a continuous need for expansion, upgrade and extension of both space and ground segment systems for DTH providers.