Amazon's 'Project Kuiper,' an internet satellite system, has achieved successful tests of an optical mesh network in low-Earth orbit. Demonstrating 100 Gbps optical links between prototype satellites, Project Kuiper plans to implement laser links on each satellite to create a mesh network in space. The constellation aims for 3,236 satellites in low Earth orbit, with the US Federal Communications Commission mandating the deployment of at least half by 2026. Following the successful launch and deployment of two prototype satellites in October, extensive testing has been conducted, ensuring optical inter-satellite links will be operational on production satellites scheduled for launch in H1 2024. The mesh network design enhances connectivity, flexibility, and resilience across the constellation, providing secure and high-speed connectivity globally. Project Kuiper is moving ahead with satellite manufacturing, preparing for a full-scale deployment starting in H1 2024, with early customer pilots expected in H2 2024.
Key Points:
1. Amazon's 'Project Kuiper,' an internet satellite system, has successfully tested an optical mesh network in low-Earth orbit, achieving 100 Gbps optical links between prototype satellites.
2. The project plans to incorporate laser links on each satellite in its constellation to create a space-based mesh network.
3. Project Kuiper aims to deploy a constellation of 3,236 satellites in low Earth orbit, with the US Federal Communications Commission requiring at least half of them to be deployed by 2026.
4. Following the successful launch and deployment of two prototype satellites in October, extensive testing of end-to-end communications payload and network has been conducted.
5. Optical inter-satellite links (OISLs) will be operational on the first production satellites, set for launch in the first half of 2024, following validation of priority systems and subsystems within 30 days of launch.
6. Project Kuiper will operate as a mesh network in space with optical inter-satellite links connecting satellites via high-speed laser cross-links, providing secure and resilient connectivity.
7. Every Project Kuiper satellite will be equipped with multiple optical terminals, enabling the connection of many satellites simultaneously and offering flexibility to connect customers across various domains.
8. The optical mesh network will allow Project Kuiper to move and land data anywhere in space, providing secure and resilient connectivity for enterprise and public sector customers.
9. Satellite manufacturing for Project Kuiper's full-scale deployment, scheduled to start in the first half of 2024, has begun.
10. Early customer pilots are expected to commence in the second half of 2024 as Project Kuiper advances toward its goal of creating a widespread satellite constellation for internet connectivity.
(With Agency Inputs)
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