Amazon's first satellites set to launch, testing rival to SpaceX's Starlink service

Amazon is preparing to launch its first two Kuiper satellites, KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2, on October 6 as part of its Protoflight mission.

Project Kuiper, Amazon's response to SpaceX's Starlink service, aims to deploy 3,200 satellites over the next six years to provide internet connectivity to underserved areas. These initial satellites will offer Amazon valuable real-world data and testing opportunities, enabling the company to fine-tune its satellite network and ground operations.

The Protoflight mission will test the satellites' connection to Kuiper's ground-based network and customer terminals while serving as a trial for launching subsequent satellites. Rajeev Badyal, Project Kuiper’s VP of Technology, emphasized the importance of on-orbit testing, as this is Amazon's first venture into satellite technology.

The launch was originally planned with a ULA Vulcan Centaur rocket but has since been shifted to an Atlas V due to delays in ULA's rocket development. After testing, both satellites will be deorbited.

Amazon remains on track to deploy its first production satellites in the first half of 2024, with beta testing for commercial consumers expected later that year.

You can watch the live streaming of the launch event by ULA on October 6, starting at 2 PM ET.