Systems, methods and transmission formats for providing a common platform for direct broadcast satellite television networks

A common platform for Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) networks can transmit common programming among distinct DBS networks to the DBS receivers of both networks. By providing a common platform that can broadcast common television services to DBS receivers of two or more DBS networks, the DBS networks themselves can broadcast additional services, such as high definition TV and/or data services, using spectrum that is freed-up by the common platform. DBS receiving systems can include first and second DBS receivers. The first DBS receivers are configured to receive a first broadcast signal including first television services from a first satellite television network (for example, DirecTV). The second DBS receivers are configured to receive a second broadcast signal including second television services from a second satellite television network (for example, EchoStar). At least some of the first and second receivers are also configured to receive a common broadcast signal including common television services, from a common platform satellite television network.