NASA TV UHD, the first consumer Ultra HD UHD channel in North America, is now available. The ambient video channel provides consumers with an array of out-of-this-world linear 2160p60 video content.
Transmitted in the clear via the SES AMC-18C satellite, NASA TV UHD is remotely produced by Harmonic and jointly operated with NASA. Harmonic is currently in discussions with pay-TV operators to carry the channel on their satellite DTH, cable and optical networks. Tests are underway to enable consumption on a wide range of television and IP-connected devices. The channel will also be available for OTT streaming at a later date.
NASA TV UHD consists of eight new TV series designed to explore the various facets of NASA’s space programme. These include: ISS Life, documenting life on the space station from the first-person perspective of the astronauts; Earth View, the astronauts’ unique perception of our planet; Solar System, showing imagery of the earth’s neighbouring planets and the sun, including time-lapse videos using solar dynamics observatory images; and Deep Space, animated UHD still imagery captured from the Hubble telescope and other telescopic platforms.
“Not only is NASA TV UHD the first consumer UHD channel in North America, the ambient nature of the channel is unlike anything anyone has ever seen before, taking the consumer entertainment experience to a whole new level,” said Peter Alexander, chief marketing officer at Harmonic. “Each programme featured on NASA TV UHD is composed of long, beautiful shots that can only be described as breathtaking. Delivered in the eight million pixel resolution of the UHD format, it truly is a remarkable viewing experience that would not have been possible without Harmonic’s complete solution for Ultra HD video production and delivery. We’re happy that the channel is now operational with the first tranche of content.”
