Amazon to launch Project Kepler prototype in 2022

Amazon is gearing up to meet its goal of deploying 3,236 communications satellites into low Earth orbit, enabling Internet access from anywhere on the planet. Amazon has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the launch of two prototypes of satellites, KuiperSat-1 and 2.

These prototype satellites contain the technology Amazon will need to build its own constellation of satellites in the future, and it is to verify that these technologies actually work. In addition, procedures for making the network function in orbit and verification of mission management are also carried out from this satellite.

Project Kepler’s Vice President of Technology, Rajeev Badyal, said the prototype developed a number of new technologies to achieve project cost and performance goals. Keplersat-1 and 2 are scheduled to be launched at the end of 2022, and when these tests are completed, the satellite will be removed from orbit rather than fragmented as it is. One of the two satellites is equipped with a sun shade to suppress the reflection of sunlight on the ground, and the effect is being confirmed.

The launch uses an ABL Space Systems RS1 rocket. Also, in production, Kepler satellites are said to correspond to ULA Atlas V rockets. In addition, if the FCC application is approved, Project Kepler plans to put half of the 3,236 in orbit by 2026 and all of them into orbit by July 2029. Related information can be found here.