Discovery Canada's application for 24/7 HD Channel

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I received this very interesting and exciting reply from Discovery HD Canada (via another forum) regarding their application to the CRTC for 24/7 HD service -

Yes, Bob, this would be a unique network with a seperate schedule from the SD Discovery service. Programming would be acquired from Discovery US, NHK and other international broadcasters who produce in HD. In addition, we have for the past three years been producing our own content in HD -- at least 40 hours per year. These are then sold to other networks, such as HD Theatre and HD Net.

We have also obtained exclusive broadcast rights to live HD specials. Shuttle is the most recent example. But last year we worked with NHK to provide a live feed of a total solar eclipse from Antartica. Spectacular. We plan on 8-10 quick turnaround or live specials each year.

In addition, we commission dozens more hours with Canadian production companies and international producers. In 2007, we will air an 11-hour event called Mars Rising - a series of documentaries and simulations that will allow viewers to experience in HD what a "manned" mission to Mars would look and feel like.

Keep in mind that HD productions continue to be significantly more expensive than in SD and the incremental revenues, especially in a country the size of Canada, are marginal, at best...so these are all lost leaders. We do it not to make more money but because we believe in the future of HD. It is not an overstatement to say that we -- Discovery Canada and our production company EPI-- are recognized internationally as leaders in the HD field. This of course, typically, does not get much recognition here at home.

We are anxiously awaiting approval of a full HD network so we can truly showcase what we are doing -- both here and abroad.

It is great to see a Canadian broadcaster that is commited to HDTV despite the added costs. I hope the CRTC approves their application without delay!