Amazon seeks U.S. approval to deploy 4,500 additional satellites for internet project

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https://www.reuters.com/technology/amazon-seeks-us-approval-deploy-4500-additional-satellites-internet-project-2021-11-05/

Amazon.com is seeking approval from U.S. communications regulators to deploy more than 4,500 additional satellites as part of the company's effort to deliver broadband internet to areas around the world that lack high-speed service.

Amazon had said previously it planned to spend at least $10 billion to build 3,236 such satellites through its Project Kuiper program. Late on Thursday it asked the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for approval to deploy a total of 7,774 satellites for the project.

On Monday, Amazon asked the FCC for approval to launch and operate two prototype satellites by the end of 2022.

Amazon said in its filing the satellites "will serve households, hospitals, businesses, government agencies, and other organizations around the world, including in geographic areas where reliable broadband remains lacking." "Although connectivity has improved on a global basis, only 51% of the global population, and 44% of the population of developing countries, are online," the company filing said.

Amazon seeks U.S. approval to deploy 4,500 additional satellites for internet project

Amazon.com is seeking approval from U.S. communications regulators to deploy more than 4,500 additional satellites as part of the company's effort to deliver broadband internet to areas around the world that lack high-speed service.

www.reuters.com

 

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FCC approves Amazon’s satellite broadband plan over SpaceX’s objections​

Amazon's Kuiper division can start launching satellites to offer broadband service in the US, the Federal Communications Commission said yesterday. The FCC's International Bureau approved Kuiper's orbital debris mitigation plan. This approval was needed to satisfy a condition imposed in 2020 when the Amazon subsidiary received tentative approval for a network of 3,236 satellites in low-Earth orbit. "Our action will allow Kuiper to begin deployment of its constellation in order to bring high-speed broadband connectivity to customers around the world," yesterday's FCC order said.

FCC approves Amazon’s satellite broadband plan over SpaceX’s objections

Amazon's 3,236-satellite plan greenlit despite SpaceX seeking 578-satellite limit.

arstechnica.com