In a bid to challenge the dominance of SpaceX in the race for global internet coverage, Amazon successfully launched a pair of test satellites on Friday. The endeavor marks the e-commerce giant’s inaugural foray into the space-based broadband offerings competition.
At precisely 11:20 a.m. EST, the United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket roared to life, propelling the two experimental satellites into orbit from the iconic launch pad at Cape Canaveral, Florida. This milestone marks the commencement of Amazon’s ambitious project, which envisions a constellation of 3,236 satellites encircling Earth to enhance worldwide internet connectivity.
SpaceX, helmed by Elon Musk, gained a substantial lead in this competitive arena with the launch of its initial Starlink satellites in 2018, followed by the deployment of operational satellites in 2019. Presently, SpaceX boasts a fleet of approximately 5,000 satellites launched from both Florida and California, utilizing the company’s own Falcon rockets. Additionally, Europe’s Eutelsat OneWeb has successfully deployed 600 satellites into orbit, further intensifying the race for global internet supremacy.
Amazon sets its sights on achieving operational status for its service by the close of 2021. To surmount recent setbacks, the company pivoted from its original blueprint of utilizing the ULA Vulcan rocket, which faced unforeseen delays pushing the launch date potentially into 2022. Demonstrating its commitment to expeditious deployment, Amazon has secured agreements with multiple launch agencies, reserving a total of 77 launches to ensure all satellites reach their intended orbits.
The Federal Communications Commission has mandated that at least half of Amazon’s satellite constellation be operational by 2026, with full operational capability required by 2029. Amazon is on a trajectory to meet these stringent deadlines, showcasing its dedication to providing comprehensive global internet coverage.
With the stakes high and time ticking away, Amazon, SpaceX, and Eutelsat OneWeb are locked in a fierce competition to deliver worldwide internet access through space-based satellites with unprecedented speed. The successful launch of the initial satellite is but a prelude to what both SpaceX and Amazon have in store, as they relentlessly pursue the goal of revolutionizing broadband technology for consumers worldwide.
Source: AP News
