Amazon to Deorbit Pair of Prototype Satellites, Calling Tests Successful
- tech360.tv
- May 24, 2024
- 2 min read
Amazon to discard two prototype satellites after successful tests. KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2 achieved 100% success rate in low-Earth orbit. Satellites will be deorbited gradually over the next few months.
The decision comes after a successful test campaign of its Kuiper broadband internet constellation. The Kuiper network aims to compete with SpaceX's Starlink and will consist of over 3,000 satellites.
During the tests, the prototype satellites, named KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2, achieved a 100% success rate across all key mission objectives. Amazon reported that every major system and subsystem on board performed nominally or better in low-Earth orbit.
To complete the final demonstration of deorbiting future spacecraft, the test satellites will gradually lower their orbital altitudes over the next few months. They will descend from approximately 475 kilometres above Earth to 217 kilometres, where they will be naturally pulled into Earth's atmosphere and burn up.
This deorbiting process is crucial for Amazon as it aims to address concerns about space debris. With the increasing traffic in Earth's shallow orbit, U.S. agencies have been pressuring companies to mitigate the risk of space junk.
The two prototype satellites were launched in October 2023 aboard an Atlas 5 rocket from United Launch Alliance, a joint venture of Boeing and Lockheed Martin. In the coming months, Amazon plans to launch its first operational satellites, originally expected to be deployed by mid-2024.
The successful tests and upcoming launch of operational satellites mark significant progress for Amazon's ambitious Kuiper project. With its constellation of satellites, Amazon aims to provide global broadband internet coverage, bridging the digital divide and expanding connectivity to underserved areas.
Amazon to discard two prototype satellites after successful tests
KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2 achieved 100% success rate in low-Earth orbit
Satellites will be deorbited gradually over the next few months
Source: Reuters
