Amazon has successfully launched its first 27 satellites as part of its initiative to establish a space-based internet network. This marks a significant step for the company in its aim to compete with Elon Musk’s established Starlink service.
A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket carried the satellites into orbit from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. These satellites represent the initial deployment of what will eventually be a constellation of 3,226 Kuiper satellites. Despite this ambitious plan, Amazon’s network will still be much smaller compared to Starlink, which already operates over 8,000 satellites and serves more than 5 million users globally.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos emphasized that there is ample opportunity for multiple players in the satellite internet market. His company specifically targets unserved and underserved communities worldwide.
— new from TechCrunch