DISH Network Satellite Television Now Broadcasts CBS, FOX Locals for Springfield, Mo.

Entertainment Editors/Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 8, 2003

WHAT:   EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) announced
        that its DISH Network(TM) now broadcasts CBS Ch. 10 (KOLR) and
        FOX Ch. 27 (KDEB) by satellite television to Springfield, Mo.

        With the inclusion of CBS, Ch. 10 and FOX Ch. 27, the local
        channels package will be available for $5.99 per month for
        DISH Network customers in the Springfield area. A DISH 500 is
        required to receive the local package.

        DISH Network now offers local channels to a total of 91 cities
        and their metro areas nationwide.

        For more information on DISH Network,
        visit www.dishnetwork.com, call 1-800/333-DISH (3474), or
        contact a local DISH Network retailer.

WHO:    EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves
        over 9 million satellite TV customers through its DISH
        Network(TM), and is a leading U.S. provider of advanced
        digital television services. 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.
        DISH Network is the leader in the sale of digital video
        recorders (DVRs). Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at
        www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).