Amazon Project Kuiper Satellite Launch - 2024

Amazon's Project Kuiper: Preparing for Prototype Satellite Launches

Project Kuiper, Amazon’s initiative to deliver internet access via satellite, is targeting the launch of two prototype satellites before the end of the following year. This aims to extend global broadband connectivity to underserved rural and remote locations.

FCC Approval and Testing Objectives

Prior to launch and operational commencement, approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is required. Kuiper Systems, the Amazon affiliate responsible for Project Kuiper, submitted a request for an experimental license to the FCC on Monday.

The primary objective of these launches is to rigorously test and validate key satellite systems. These include propulsion, power management, attitude control, thermal regulation, and the capability for over-the-air software updates.

Orbital Parameters and Constellation Deployment

The two satellites will be positioned at an altitude of 590 kilometers above Earth. This is one of three orbital altitudes previously authorized by the FCC for use by Kuiper. Amazon is obligated to deploy approximately half of its planned 3,236-satellite constellation within the next six years, according to the terms of the license.

Ground Station Connectivity and Customer Terminals

Upon reaching orbit, the satellites will establish connections with ground stations located in South America, Asia, Texas, and with four customer terminal units. Details regarding these customer units remain limited, though Amazon describes them as prototypes of a “low-cost customer terminal” developed internally.

De-orbiting Strategy and Mission Timeline

At the conclusion of their mission, the satellites will undergo a “propulsive de-orbit,” designed to ensure they burn up safely within Earth’s atmosphere. As a contingency, Project Kuiper has also planned for passive de-orbiting through orbital decay within three and a half years of launch, should the propulsive method fail.

Assuming license approval, the two prototypes, designated KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2, are scheduled for launch from Cape Canaveral during the fourth quarter of 2022.

Launch Provider Selection: ABL Space Systems

Amazon has chosen ABL Space Systems as the launch provider for these initial missions. While ABL’s RS1 rocket has yet to achieve orbit, the company anticipates its first launch from Alaska before the end of the current year. ABL recently secured $200 million in funding, increasing its valuation to $2.4 billion.

The two companies have already completed two integration design reviews, indicating a collaborative effort spanning several months.

Long-Term Partnership and Market Potential

Amazon anticipates a sustained partnership with ABL, expressing support for their future expansion. The company stated its commitment to fostering a long-term relationship.

These prototype launches represent a vital step towards the commercialization of Project Kuiper, positioning Amazon to compete within the rapidly expanding satellite broadband market, currently dominated by SpaceX’s Starlink. Market analysis by Allied Market Research suggests this sector could generate up to $18.6 billion in revenue by 2030.

Investment and Launch Capacity

Amazon has committed to investing at least $10 billion in Project Kuiper. Last April, the company secured a launch agreement with United Launch Alliance for nine launches. David Limp, Amazon SVP of Devices & Services, emphasized the need for diverse launch providers during last year’s TC Sessions: Space.

“Given the requirement to deploy over 3,200 satellites, securing substantial launch capacity is essential,” he stated. “Our strategy involves utilizing multiple launch providers to ensure sufficient capacity.”