Washington : Amazon has launched the first 27 satellites of its Project Kuiper broadband constellation, initiating a major effort to provide satellite-based internet connectivity.
The satellites were launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida aboard an Atlas V rocket operated by United Launch Alliance (ULA). The launch had been rescheduled from an earlier attempt on April 9 due to weather conditions.
Project Kuiper is designed to deploy a constellation of 3,236 low-Earth orbit satellites to expand global broadband coverage, particularly in remote and underserved regions. The company expects to begin providing services later this year, subject to operational readiness.
Amazon previously launched two prototype satellites in 2023, followed by successful testing and de-orbiting. The company plans to increase deployment through additional launches, having secured multiple contracts with international launch providers to support the project.
The Kuiper system includes a range of user terminals, including compact antennas designed to connect with the satellite network. Amazon aims to offer cost-effective solutions to enable widespread access to broadband internet.
Further launches are expected to continue throughout the year, contributing to the gradual expansion of coverage and service capabilities.
