DirecTV has successfully launched their new DirecTV 8 satellite which sill support local digital and high-definition content.

The Space Systems/Loral-built satellite, a powerful Ku/Ka-band hybrid spacecraft, will reinforce the existing fleet of eight DIRECTV satellites and will take the place of an older DIRECTV satellite at the 101-degree West longitude orbital slot. DIRECTV 8 will also provide a link for DIRECTV broadcast facilities in support of the roll out of local digital and high-definition channels in major markets this fall.

DIRECTV 8 was launched aboard an International Launch Services (ILS) Russian-built Proton launch vehicle at 10:59 a.m. PDT. After nine hours and 15 minutes, the rocket left the spacecraft in a geosynchronous transfer orbit with a high point of 22,300 miles (36,000 km) above the equator. Controllers at ground stations in Weilheim, Germany and Gnangara in Western Australia have made contact with the satellite and confirmed that all systems are functioning properly.