Amazon’s Project Kuiper said it plans to launch two satellites by the fourth quarter of next year, on ABL Space Systems' RS1 rocket. The low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation of Project Kuiper aims to bring fast and affordable broadband to difficult to reach areas of the world. Other companies are also working on LEO constellations, including OneWeb, Inmarsat and Space X’s Starlink.
For its new KuiperSat-1 and 2 prototype satellites, Project Kuiper has filed an experimental license application with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for their launch, deployment, and operation. The prototype satellites will allow the company test its communications and networking technology, and the operations and mission management procedures for the constellation in general.
KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2 will feature phased array and parabolic antennas, power and propulsion systems, and custom-designed modems. There will also be experimental tests using prototypes of Project Kuiper’s low-cost customer terminal, aimed at replacing antennas for customers.
Amazon noted that the prototype satellites are designed for atmospheric demise and will be actively deorbited after the mission. The company added that it is working with different parties to reduce the visibility of Kuiper System satellites.
The launches with ABL Space Systems will take place at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Amazon said over 750 people are working on Project Kuiper, with hundreds more set to join in the coming year.
