Amazon launches first Operational Kuiper satellites to compete with SpaceX’s Starlink

Amazon took a major step into the satellite internet market on Monday, launching its first operational batch of Project Kuiper satellites. A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying 27 satellites intended for Amazon’s future broadband network. The satellites will eventually settle into orbits around 400 miles (630 kilometers) above Earth.

This follows Amazon’s initial launch of two test satellites in 2023.

Growing Satellite Competition

Amazon, founded by Jeff Bezos, plans to deploy over 3,200 satellites as part of Project Kuiper. The initiative aims to offer fast, affordable internet services worldwide, especially in remote and underserved areas. Bezos, who also heads the space company Blue Origin, has secured multiple rocket launches from United Launch Alliance, Blue Origin, and other providers to support the massive deployment, as reported by AP.

Since 2019, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has launched more than 8,000 Starlink satellites, with over 7,000 still active in orbit roughly 550 kilometers above Earth. In contrast, European company OneWeb has launched hundreds of satellites to higher altitudes.

The rise of satellite constellations has drawn criticism from the astronomical community, which argues that the increasing number of low-orbiting satellites hinders space observations. There are also concerns about the growing risk of orbital collisions.

Despite these concerns, Amazon is pushing forward. Rajeev Badyal, vice president of Project Kuiper, acknowledged the uncertainties but remained optimistic.

“There are some things you can only learn in flight,” he said in a statement. “No matter how the mission unfolds, this is just the start of our journey.”

The launch had been delayed earlier this month due to poor weather conditions but successfully secured a new window for liftoff this week.

(With inputs from AP)

Also Read: Hong Kong frees first group in landmark ’47 democrats’ subversion trial