Amazon Prepares for First Full-Scale Project Kuiper Satellite Launch

The April 9 launch of 27 satellites marks a critical step in Amazon's $10 billion initiative to provide global high-speed internet and compete with SpaceX's Starlink.

Amazon's Project Kuiper will launch its first operational batch of 27 satellites on April 9, using a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
The satellites are an upgraded design, featuring advanced phased array antennas, propulsion systems, optical inter-satellite links, and coatings to reduce visibility to astronomers.
This mission, called KA-01, is the heaviest payload ever launched by an Atlas V rocket, requiring its most powerful configuration with five solid rocket boosters.
Amazon aims to begin delivering high-speed, low-latency internet services later in 2025, targeting underserved regions worldwide.
To meet FCC deadlines, Amazon must deploy 1,618 satellites by mid-2026 and complete its 3,200-satellite constellation by 2029.

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