Amazon Joins the Race: Alongside SpaceX's Starlink and OneWeb, Amazon plans to launch the first two prototypes of its Project Kuiper satellite constellation using small rockets as early as late 2022.
SpaceX has pioneered satellite broadband with Starlink, deploying over 1,700 satellites to deliver high-speed internet from orbit. Amazon's Project Kuiper enters this competitive arena, targeting 3,236 satellites over the next decade for low-latency, high-speed global coverage.
Amazon will deploy its initial prototypes, KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2, in Q4 2022. These satellites will ride aboard ABL Space Systems' experimental RS1 rocket from the California-based startup. Positioned at 590 kilometers altitude, they will undergo testing before deorbiting and burning up in the atmosphere.
Kuiper's ground tests with user terminals have demonstrated peak speeds of up to 400 Mbps. For comparison, Starlink's beta currently delivers up to 100-200 Mbps downloads.
Amazon is collaborating with astronomers and industry experts to minimize satellite visibility. "We are working with astronomers and other industry players to reduce the visibility of Kuiper System satellites."
Concerns from astronomers about mega-constellations disrupting night sky observations prompted Kuiper to equip one prototype with a sun visor to cut sunlight reflection. "We will collect data to compare the reflectivity between the two spacecraft and share any learnings with the astronomical community after the mission," states a company blog post. SpaceX has similarly deployed sunshades on over 1,000 satellites.
Selecting ABL's RS1 for the prototypes is a departure from earlier plans. Amazon initially announced United Launch Alliance's proven Atlas V rockets—veterans of missions like New Horizons, Juno, InSight, and Mars 2020's Perseverance rover—for the full constellation.
ABL's RS1 remains unflown, with a test launch slated before year-end. It offers about 1.5 tons to low Earth orbit at roughly $12 million per flight. An Amazon spokesperson noted its suitability for these prototypes, while Atlas V will handle broader deployments.
