VOOM's Domestic Operations to Shut Down

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Rainbow Media, the programming arm of Cablevision, is moving to shut down the domestic operations of VOOM, the high-def programmer with a satellite-centric past, reported CableFAX Daily.

A Rainbow spokesperson confirmed the shutdown, but didn't offer specifics.

At the moment, Cablevision carries the channels. It's expected that a transition from VOOM channels to other HD content will occur in late January.

Cablevision said in a statement, "We will replace these channels with other quality HD programming and there will be no reduction in the number of high-definition channels available to our iO TV customers. We currently offer 68 HD channels without any additional equipment or programming fees, unlike our competitors, and expect our HD lineup to continue to expand in the coming months."

In an internally-circulated memo, Rainbow's Josh Sapan cited the loss of carriage with DISH Network for part of the reason for VOOM's closure. "As we analyzed the opportunities and challenges in the current environment … it became clear that we can no longer operate VOOM domestically, particularly without EchoStar fulfilling its obligations and providing its support," stated the memo.

VOOM and DISH have been engaged in litigation at New York State Supreme Court concerning the satellite TV company's move to drop the HD networks earlier this year.

Layoffs could be part of the VOOM shutdown, though it's expected that some staff will be retained to work with the service's international channels, which will continue operation.