Amazon is moving forward in the space-based internet race with the successful launch of its first Project Kuiper satellites. The goal: to compete with Starlink and connect the world's most remote areas. A battle to... A multi-billion dollar investment is being made.
Satellite internet is becoming a major strategic issue for tech giants. Deploying constellations in low Earth orbit makes it possible to provide a fast and reliable connection everywhere, even in areas without traditional infrastructure. Several companies such as SpaceX, Amazon, Viasat, and Eutelsat are investing heavily to cover the planet. In this global competition, Amazon has just taken an important step.
On the night of April 28, 2025, Amazon launched 27 satellites as part of its ambitious Project Kuiper. Liftoff took place from Cape Canaveral Station in Florida aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. This launch, initially scheduled for April 9 but postponed until due to bad weather, marks the beginning of a program of more than 80 missions. Ultimately, the company wants to deploy more than 3,200 to ensure global internet coverage. The first commercial offering is expected before the end of the year.
Amazon deploys 27 satellites as part of Project Kuiper to compete with Starlink
The satellites launched today are far more advanced than the prototypes tested in 2023. Each onboard system has been improved : phased array antennas for better transmission, more powerful solar panels, optimized propulsion, and inter-satellite optical links. In addition, Amazon has added a special coating to limit light pollution, a point often criticized for Starlink. These improvements demonstrate the company's desire to offer a high-performance constellation, while minimizing its impact on sky observation.
To achieve its goal, Amazon is relying on launch agreements with ULA, Arianespace, Blue Origin, and even SpaceX. Despite its delay on Starlink, which already has With approximately 7,200 satellites in operation, the American giant intends to play a major role in global access to high-speed internet. More than a rivalry between companies, this race aims to reduce the digital divide and provide better connectivity to rural and isolated regions, all over the planet.
Nominal start to our KA-01 mission. We’ve already established contact with all 27 Kuiper satellites in orbit, and initial deployment and activation sequences are proceeding as planned. Thanks to @ULAlaunch for a successful launch – the first of many missions together. pic.twitter.com/XyG0UCgjuX
— Project Kuiper (@ProjectKuiper) April 29, 2025
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