Amazon launches first satellites in bid to compete with SpaceX's Starlink internet service

Amazon launched its first two prototype satellites, KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2, on October 6 as part of its Project Kuiper initiative to provide global broadband internet connectivity.
The satellites were carried into space by a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
Project Kuiper aims to have a network of over 3,200 satellites in orbit and provide internet coverage to underserved communities by late 2024.
SpaceX's Starlink currently dominates the satellite internet market with thousands of satellites already in orbit.
Amazon faces regulatory deadlines to launch half its planned constellation by mid-2026 and catch up to SpaceX's head start.