Can rocket launches and astronaut spacewalks help Netflix boost its live streaming ambitions?
The streaming giant is linking up with the U.S. space agency NASA, with live programming from NASA+ set to be available on Netflix beginning later this summer. The agreement will see NASA+ available as a feed within Netflix, a first for the streaming giant in the U.S. from an outside programmer.
Netflix inked a landmark deal with France’s TF1 broadcast network earlier this month that will add live feeds from its channels. NASA+ is no TF1, but it is nonetheless a sign that Netflix is open to licensing deals with partners that can provide live video streams.
Netflix’s live programming up to this point has either been produced in-house or hosted as an exclusive live event, with a heavy emphasis on sports and sports-adjacent fare.
It is also worth noting that NASA+ is available for free on NASA’s website, and also recently inked a distribution deal with Amazon Prime Video, so the agency is seeking as wide a distribution path as possible for its programming. NASA also has an active presence on YouTube, including live streams.
“The National Aeronautics and our Space Act of 1958 calls on us to share our story of space exploration with the broadest possible audience,” said Rebecca Sirmons, GM of NASA+, in a statement. “Together, we’re committed to a Golden Age of Innovation and Exploration – inspiring new generations – right from the comfort of their couch or in the palm of their hand from their phone.”
NASA+ launched in 2023 as an expansion of the space agency’s mission to bring more understanding of science and exploration to the public. It streams rocket launches, spacewalks, mission coverage and live footage of Earth from the International Space Station, among other programming. Netflix and NASA plans to release more programming details closer to launch.
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