Amazon's Project Kuiper marks successful launch of internet satellite prototypes

The United Launch Alliance's (ULA) Atlas V rocket carried the first two Project Kuiper prototype satellites to low Earth orbit. The launch took place at 2:06 PM ET from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Despite project delays, the Protoflight mission represents a critical milestone in the development of the satellite network. It allows Amazon to collect real-world data to support laboratory and field test results and improve network performance on Earth and in space.

The successful launch marks Amazon's first experience launching satellites into space, with the company emphasizing the importance of orbital testing to validate the satellite's design. The Protoflight mission also provides a test of the satellites' processing, launch procedures and flight operations. Following the mission's conclusion, Amazon will actively deorbit both satellites to ensure their safe reentry into the Earth's atmosphere.

The Kuiper project aims to bring fast and affordable broadband Internet access to underserved and unserved communities around the world. More than 3,200 satellites are planned to be launched over the next six years, with KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2 prototypes representing the initial phase.

Amazon expects to launch production satellites in the first half of 2024, with beta testing beginning late next year.