Amazon's Project Kuiper Faces Launch Hurdles as Arianespace Aims to Double Ariane 6 Rates
Amazon's Project Kuiper is facing launch availability challenges due to delays at Arianespace and other providers. Meanwhile, Arianespace is exploring ways to boost its Ariane 6 launch rates to meet growing demand, including a potential doubling by 2026.
Project Kuiper's executive has cited launch availability as the project's biggest hurdle. Delays at Arianespace and other launch providers have posed challenges. However, Arianespace is studying solutions to address bottlenecks in Ariane 6 launch rates. This includes increasing the production of solid rocket boosters and constructing a second launch pad. The company aims to double its launch rate to eight by 2026, marking a swift increase for a heavy-lift rocket. If demand supports it, Arianespace is considering increasing the launch rate beyond 10 per year.
Arianespace is currently working with the German armed forces to launch two SATCOMBw satellites using Ariane-6 rockets. This could contribute to increased demand for Ariane-6 launches. Additionally, the company is accelerating launches for Project Kuiper, potentially giving them access to gaps in the manifest. New satellite constellations like Project Kuiper and European IRIS2 could justify expanded launch capacity.
Arianespace expects to perform two more Ariane 6 launches in 2023, totaling four for the year. The company is committed to addressing launch availability challenges for projects like Amazon's Project Kuiper. Future decisions on increasing launch capacity will depend on demand, with potential launches for new satellite constellations on the horizon.
Read also:
- Tesla is reportedly staying away from the solid-state battery trend, as suggested by indications from CATL and Panasonic.
- UK automaker, Jaguar Land Rover, to commit £500 million for electric vehicle manufacturing in Merseyside
- Vertical Future Collapses After Failing to Secure Buyer, 60 Jobs Lost
- U.S. Energy & Politics: Wood Burning Criticized, Wind Industry Faces Policy Hurdles, GOP Divided on Climate
