DISH Network Satellite Television Now Broadcasts CBS, NBC Locals for Wilkes-Barre-Scranton, PA.

Business Editors

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

WHAT:   EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) announced
        that its DISH Network(TM) now broadcasts CBS Ch. 22 (WYOU) and
        NBC Ch. 28 (WBRE) by satellite television to
        Wilkes-Barre-Scranton, Pa.

        With the inclusion of CBS, Ch. 22 and NBC Ch. 28 the local
        channels package will be available for $5.99 per month for
        DISH Network customers in the Wilkes-Barre area. A SuperDISH
        antenna -- free to customers who subscribe to a year's worth
        of basic programming with the local channels -- 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).