Amazon launches first internet satellites to challenge Starlink
Amazon has initiated the deployment of its inaugural internet satellites, positioning itself to rival SpaceX’s Starlink. Amazon’s initial group of Internet satellites launched into orbit on Monday, marking its entry into the mega constellation market, which is presently led by SpaceX’s extensive fleet of Starlinks.
The Atlas V rocket, operated by the United Launch Alliance, successfully launched 27 satellites for Amazon’s Project Kuiper, which draws its name from the cold outer regions of our solar system, situated beyond Neptune. Upon their deployment into orbit, the satellites are projected to ascend to an altitude approaching 630 kilometres. In 2023, two test satellites were launched, utilizing an Atlas V rocket. Project officials indicated that significant enhancements were implemented in the latest iteration. The latest satellites are equipped with a mirror film intended to scatter reflected sunlight, aiming to meet the needs of astronomers.
Stargazers express opposition to the rapidly expanding constellations of low-orbiting satellites, contending that they disrupt astronomical observations. Concerns are rising regarding the potential for increased satellite collisions. Founded by Jeff Bezos, who currently operates his own rocket venture, Blue Origin, Amazon intends to launch over 3,200 of these satellites into orbit to deliver rapid, cost-effective broadband service worldwide.
Since 2019, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has successfully launched over 8,000 Starlinks. The company celebrated its 250th Starlink launch on Sunday night. Over 7,000 Starlinks remain in orbit approximately 550 kilometres above the Earth’s surface. The OneWeb satellite constellation, based in Europe, comprises hundreds of satellites operating at an even higher orbit. Amazon has already acquired numerous rocket launches from United Launch Alliance and Blue Origin for Project Kuiper, among others.
“There are some things you can only learn in flight,” said Rajeev Badyal, the project’s vice-president, despite extensive testing on the ground. “No matter how the mission unfolds, this is just the start of our journey,” he stated in a declaration prior to the evening liftoff. The initial attempt at liftoff earlier this month was thwarted by adverse weather conditions. It has taken until this moment to obtain an additional position in the launch schedule at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
