Best Satellites for Free-to-Air FTA TV Channels in the USA: Galaxy 19 and AMC-18

For viewers in the United States interested in accessing a wide range of Free-to-Air (FTA) television channels, there are several reliable satellite options available. Among these, the Galaxy 19 and AMC-18 satellites stand out, providing a variety of news, entertainment, and international programming.

Galaxy 19 Satellite: A Source of 200 Free-to-Air Channels

When it comes to choosing the best satellite for FTA channels in the USA, the Galaxy 19 satellite emerges as a top choice. Positioned at 97.0° west, this satellite offers approximately 200 free-to-air television channels and around 70 radio channels. To receive these channels, you would need a dish antenna ranging from 65 cm to 90 cm in size, specifically a Ku-band dish. Additionally, a compatible FTA satellite receiver is necessary for demodulating the signal and displaying the content.

To ensure the proper alignment of your satellite dish, it is recommended to use a satellite finder or a dB meter. These tools will help you accurately determine the dish's positioning to capture the best signal strength from the Galaxy 19 satellite.

Complementary SATellite Options: AMC-18 and Astra 2D

In addition to the Galaxy 19 satellite, the AMC-18 satellite serves as another valuable option for accessing FTA channels. Located at 72.2° west, AMC-18 also offers a considerable selection of FTA programming, though the exact number of channels may vary. Similar to the Galaxy 19, reception of AMC-18 requires a Ku-band dish antenna and a compatible FTA satellite receiver.

UK-Specific Options: Astra 2D and Free-to-Air TV

For UK viewers, the primary satellite option for FTA channels is Astra 2D, positioned at 28.2° east. In recent years, digital terrestrial television has also become a viable alternative, such as the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) service, which offers a range of free-to-air channels without the need for a satellite dish.

Why FTA Channels Might Change Over Time

It's important to note that the availability of FTA channels can change over time. Providers may add or remove channels, and changes in the satellite landscape can also affect the availability of these channels. Therefore, it's always a good idea to stay informed about the current offerings by researching the latest updates and listings from reliable resources such as LyngSat.

Conclusion

For viewers seeking a diverse range of free-to-air television and radio channels, the Galaxy 19 and AMC-18 satellites are excellent choices. With the right equipment and setup, these satellites can provide a rich selection of content for entertainment and informational purposes. However, UK viewers should consider the alternatives such as Astra 2D and DTT services for FTA broadcasting.