ENGLEWOOD, Colo. & NEW YORK-- EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) and its DISH Network^TM satellite TV service today announced the launch of A&E HD, a high definition simulcast of the network’s blockbuster lineup.

“The exciting addition of A&E HD helps further complement DISH Network’s industry-leading suite of high definition programming,” said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network. “We are pleased to be the first national provider of A&E HD, bringing our total national HD channel offering to 31 channels – the most comprehensive in the pay-TV industry.”

“Now DISH Network subscribers can see their favorite A&E programs such as Gene Simmons Family Jewels, The First 48, CSI: Miami and The Sopranos in the sharp, high-resolution detail of HDTV,” said David Zagin, Executive Vice President, Distribution, AETN. “As we continue our expansion in the digital marketplace, we are pleased to begin offering A&E programming in HD to DISH Network customers.”

January 2007 was a record-setting month for A&E, becoming the most-watched month in network history across all key demos. Versus all ad-supported cable networks, A&E ranked number four in adults 25-54 and number five in adults 18-49, for the month. This marks the sixth consecutive month in which A&E landed in the top 10 among both key demographics.

A&E HD is located on DISH Network Channel 9419 and is available to customers who subscribe to the DishHD programming package ($20 add-on to the base programming package).

Also starting today, new DISH Network customers can profit from the revolutionary DishDVR Advantage package, an all-inclusive TV package including over 200 channels, local channels where available, a state-of-the-art DVR serving two TVs and free standard professional installation with no extra fees for one low price of $49.99 before promotions. For only $20 more a month customers can customize their DishDVR Advantage plan with DishHD. Additionally, DISH Network’s highly acclaimed two-room ViP622 HD DVR is now available for free to new customers.

For more information about DISH Network and the DishHD programming packages, call 1-800-333-DISH (3474), visit www.dishnetwork.com, or visit your local DISH Network retailer.

About EchoStar Communications Corporation

EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) serves more than 13 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest-growing pay-TV provider in the country since 2000. DISH Network's services include hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. EchoStar has been a leader for more than 25 years in satellite TV equipment sales and support worldwide. EchoStar is included in the Nasdaq-100 Index (NDX) and is a Fortune 300 company. Visit EchoStar's Web site at www.echostar.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).

About A&E HD

A&E HD offers a diverse mix of high quality entertainment; ranging from the network’s signature Real-Life Series franchise, including High Definition presentations of the hit series "Driving Force," "King of Cars" and "Dallas SWAT," to critically acclaimed original movies, dramatic series and the most successful justice shows on cable, including "Cold Case Files" and "The First 48." A&E HD is the official home to the high-profile off-network series presented in High Definition "24," "CSI: Miami," "Crossing Jordan" and "The Sopranos." The A&E website is located at www.aetv.com. The A&E Insider is located at www.aetv.com/insider. For more information and photography please visit us on the web at www.aetvpress.com.