Amazon Kuiper Internet Network Progress
On Thursday, Amazon.com declared the successful operation of its two prototype satellites within the Kuiper internet network, affirming its trajectory towards launching operational satellites by mid-2024. The move places Amazon in direct competition with Elon Musk’s Starlink, vying to offer global broadband internet service.
Within the initial 30 days post-launch from Florida via a United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, the prototype satellites demonstrated a flawless success rate. Employing these prototypes, Amazon engaged in diverse activities such as two-way video calls, high-definition movie streaming on Prime Video, and making purchases on the Amazon platform.
Acknowledging the complexities ahead, Rajeev Badyal, Vice President of Technology for Project Kuiper, remarked, “We still have considerable work ahead, and the challenges of scaling for mass production should not be underestimated.” The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has mandated that Amazon deploy over half of its planned constellation, exceeding 3,000 satellites, by 2026.
Satellite Production and Launch Plans
Post the positive prototype tests, Amazon plans to initiate satellite production next month, with a targeted launch in the second quarter of 2024. However, the exact count of satellites to be launched per rocket remains undisclosed by Badyal.
Badyal envisions the Kuiper network offering broadband coverage in select global regions by late 2024, with an early beta phase slated for commencement in early 2025. Notably, initial partners such as Vodafone (VOD.L) and Verizon (VZ.N) are positioned to be the first telecom companies to beta test the service.
In a strategic move, Amazon sealed a substantial bulk launch deal encompassing 83 launches, marking it as the most extensive commercial rocket procurement to date. This comprehensive agreement involves collaboration with various rocket companies, including Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and Europe’s Arianespace.
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