The DirecTV 11 satellite has launched successfully from the Pacific Ocean-based Sea Launch platform, further boosting the satellite provider’s high-definition (HD) capacity.

The launch will enable DirecTV to deliver up to 150 national HD channels when the satellite goes into service this fall. DirecTV will also expand its distribution of local HD channels to more than 100 markets, representing 84 percent of U.S. TV households.

In 2009, the satellite provider will launch another satellite, this one enabling DirecTV to offer consumers up to 200 national HD channels.

Earlier this week, DirecTV delayed the launch of the satellite to avoid an unspecified potential problem, and Dish Network’s newest satellite was in a lower orbit than intended (story here).

Last week, a story in The Wall Street Journal reported that DirecTV is working on a video-on-demand (VOD) service, which it plans to launch in Q2 (story here).

More Broadband Direct:

• FCC gives DirecTV, Dish Network extension on digital deadline 

• Convergys expanding Cox’s relationship management functionality 

• Verizon beefs up VOD offering 

• Majority of over-the-air consumers opting for free digital TV 

• DirecTV satellite launches; will enable delivery of 150 HD channels 

• Comcast promotes Backstroom, Dua 

• Broadband Briefs for 3/20/08