Amazon has launched its first batch of Project Kuiper internet satellites, entering a competitive market dominated by SpaceX’s Starlink constellation. The United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket carried 27 Kuiper satellites into orbit on Monday, following two test satellites launched in 2023. The latest satellites feature significant upgrades, including a mirror film coating designed to reduce their visibility to astronomers by scattering reflected sunlight. This development addresses concerns from stargazers who argue that low-orbiting satellite constellations interfere with astronomical observations. The Project Kuiper satellites are expected to reach an altitude of approximately 400 miles (630 kilometers) once released. Amazon, founded by Jeff Bezos – who also owns Blue Origin, a rocket company – plans to deploy over 3,200 satellites to provide fast and affordable global broadband services. This move is part of a larger trend in the satellite internet market, with SpaceX having already launched over 8,000 Starlink satellites since 2019, of which more than 7,000 remain in orbit. The European-based OneWeb satellite constellation also operates in higher orbits with hundreds of satellites. Amazon has secured multiple rocket launches from various providers, including United Launch Alliance and Blue Origin, for Project Kuiper. “There are some things you can only learn in flight,” said Rajeev Badyal, Project Kuiper’s vice president, highlighting the importance of actual launch experience despite extensive ground testing. The launch was initially delayed earlier this month due to adverse weather conditions before securing a spot in the launch schedule at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
