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Amazon successfully launched its first set of internet satellites into orbit on Monday night, marking a significant entry into the mega constellation sector, which is largely dominated by SpaceX’s extensive Starlink network.
The United Launch Alliance utilized an Atlas V rocket to deploy 27 satellites from Amazon’s Project Kuiper. These satellites are destined to reach orbits nearly 630 kilometers above Earth, situated in the cold outskirts of our solar system, beyond Neptune.
Prior to this launch, two test satellites were sent into orbit in 2023, also aboard an Atlas V. Project representatives have indicated that substantial upgrades were incorporated into the latest satellites, which feature a specialized mirror film aimed at diffusing sunlight to minimize their impact on astronomical observations.
Concerns regarding the proliferation of low-orbit satellites have been voiced by stargazers, who argue that these constellations can obscure celestial observations. Additionally, there are worries about the potential for increased satellite collisions.
“Nominal start to our KA-01 mission. We’ve established contact with all 27 Kuiper satellites in orbit, and the deployment and activation sequences are proceeding as planned. Thanks to @ULAlaunch for a successful launch – the first of many missions together. pic.twitter.com/XyG0UCgjuX
Founded by Jeff Bezos, who also heads Blue Origin, Amazon’s ambition is to deploy over 3,200 satellites to ensure swift and affordable broadband connectivity globally.
In contrast, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has already launched more than 8,000 Starlink satellites since its inception in 2019, and celebrated its 250th Starlink launch recently. Currently, over 7,000 Starlinks are operational at roughly 550 kilometers above the Earth’s surface.
Meanwhile, the European-based OneWeb satellite constellation is significantly smaller but operates at an even higher altitude.
Amazon has secured numerous rocket launches from United Launch Alliance and Blue Origin to facilitate Project Kuiper, in addition to other partnerships.
Rajeev Badyal, the vice president of the project, emphasized the importance of in-flight learning, stating, “There are some things you can only learn in flight,” despite the rigorous ground testing performed. He added, “No matter how the mission unfolds, this is just the start of our journey,” reflecting on the evening’s launch.
The initial attempt for this launch earlier in the month was canceled due to adverse weather conditions. It required a coordinated effort to find another available launch window at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Source
www.cbc.ca