Interested in getting a Sky Satellite dish installed? With over 240 free-to-air digital channels that require no monthly subscription fee, you can watch an array of fantastic TV shows and films while saving money with a Sky Satellite dish.
In this article, we cover what satellites Sky uses and the different types of Sky satellites available.
So, let’s dive into it!
What Satellite Does Sky Use?
Sky Digital uses a satellite known as the Astra 2 satellite fleet located 28.2 – 28.5 degrees east above the Equator. The Sky Digital TV satellite offers coverage to people living in the UK and includes those living in the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands.
The footprint of the Sky Digital satellite allows its coverage to be received in certain parts of Europe as well. The picture below shows how the signals are distributed across the UK and Europe.
Similarly to these main UK broadcasters who use an Astra 2 satellite, Sky uses a spot beam to deliver a signal for free-to-air channels.
What Types Of Sky Satellite Dishes Are Available?
There are two main satellite dishes you can install for Sky. When accessing Sky channels, you’ll need to ensure you have a suitable-sized dish directed towards the Astra satellites.
You can achieve the best signal by placing your satellite between 139 and 146 degrees southeast.
Here’s a breakdown of the two satellite dishes you can install to gain the best coverage depending on where you live in the UK.
Sky Zone 1
In the centre of the spot beam, a Sky Zone 1 satellite dish is commonly used for coverage in both the South and Midlands of England. The dish is a 43 cm elliptical mesh dish made from steel and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Sky Zone 2
Sky Zone 2 satellite dishes are 60 cm elliptical mesh dishes which are made from steel. They are typically installed in North England and Scotland. They differ from Zone 1 dishes as they feature a separate mounting arm to enable the dish to clamp onto which is inserted into the mounting bracket.
Why Is Each Dish Used In Different Parts Of The UK?
The reason why each dish is used in different parts of the UK is due to the distance between the satellite and satellite dishes. With the south of the UK being closer to the satellites, there is less amount of signal lost between the distance of satellite dishes and the Astra 2 satellites, compared to the north of the UK.
Therefore, it’s better to install a Sky Zone 2 satellite that is a larger dish in order to receive strong signals. As a result, this will help reduce the pixelated images on TV screens when Sky Zone 2 dishes are installed.
What You Need To Know When Installing A Sky Satellite Dish
When installing a Sky satellite dish, it’s always best to have a professional expert install it.
They will survey an area where your dish will need to be installed and where best to position your satellite. An expert engineer will ensure you can receive the best coverage by aligning your satellite dish to the required angle – getting you your favourite Sky channels in no time!
Sky Satellite TV Installation
Interested in receiving the best reception when watching your favourite Sky channels? Contact AerialForce now for a free estimate. Our highly-skilled local engineers can visit your property within the same day!
Contact us today to book your appointment, or call us on 0330 162 7094.
