The new Russian cable channel Science 2.0 will start test transmissions on February 15 and make its debut at the end of this month.
According to AKTR and CNews, it will be the second channel created by the state broadcaster VGTRK especially for cable distribution, the first being Moya Planeta (My Planet) last year.
VGTRK is likely to sell a 20% stake in Science 2.0, with the proceeds of around $3 million (€2.18 million) being ploughed back into the channel.
Last December it was reported that Science 2.0 would be distributed via cable and satellite and have an annual budget of around $10 million.