Amazon has sent the first Project Kuiper internet satellites into space in an attempt to impose competition to Starlink

As planned, Amazon sent Project Kuiper satellites into space. Two prototypes were put into orbit by an Atlas V rocket.

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Amazon intends to impose competition to SpaceX, which is successfully developing the Starlink service. Test satellites KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2 will be able to collect important information that will allow to develop the project further.

United Launch Alliance's (ULA) Atlas V rocket launched the day before from Cape Canaveral Space Centre. The mission, called Protoflight, aims to test whether satellites can connect to ground stations and terminals.

Amazon plans to put more than 3,200 spacecraft into orbit. The constellation will provide satellite internet to regions where conventional internet providers do not have access.

In addition to the Atlas V, Ariane 6 and New Glen rockets from Arianespace and Blue Origin will be used to put the satellites into orbit, respectively. Amazon has signed contracts worth several billion dollars.

Source: Reuters