Amazon has taken a step into the space industry by launching its first two prototype internet satellites. This is part of Amazon’s plan to create a massive satellite network of over 3,000 satellites to provide internet access to areas with limited connectivity, competing directly with SpaceX’s Starlink system.
The test satellites were sent into orbit from Florida, and Amazon aims to use them to gather real-world data for its Kuiper satellite project. They plan to launch operational satellites next year and start testing with customers by the end of 2024. According to their Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license, Amazon must have half of the planned 3,236 satellites in orbit by July 2026.
Amazon’s Kuiper network’s main goal is to bring internet access to remote areas using satellite signals. While it’s a competitor to SpaceX’s Starlink, it will likely take some time to catch up since Starlink has already made significant progress in the satellite internet field.
