United Launch Alliance launched an Atlas V rocket carrying the Kuiper 2 mission for Amazon over the weekend.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper is part of the company’s initiative to provide internet service to customers around the world.
“We are proud to continue our strong partnership with Amazon and empower their mission to bridge the digital divide through reliable satellite technology,” said Gary Wentz, ULA vice president of government and commercial programs.
The Kuiper 2 launch deployed the second batch of satellites into its intended orbit. There are six remaining Kuiper missions on the Atlas V rocket, building up to 38 high-cadence, rapid fire launches on the next-generation Vulcan rocket. ULA will deliver more than half of the Project Kuiper constellation’s 3,200 satellites. At the time of its announcement, the partnership between ULA and Amazon was the largest commercial launch agreement in the industry.
The goal of Project Kuiper is to have all of the satellites launched by July 2029.
United Launch Alliance, located in Decatur, is a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin. It produces the Vulcan Centaur and Atlas V rockets. The former Delta IV rocket, also produced by ULA, has been retired.
