A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket launched 29 Amazon LEO satellites from Cape Canaveral early on July 2. The deployment brings the total number of operational LEO satellites above 390. Amazon says this is enough to support initial continuous broadband service after the satellites reach their operational altitude.
The rocket lifted off from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Amazon confirmed that contact has been established with all 29 satellites and that they are functioning as expected. The satellites must still be raised to an altitude of 392 miles before service can begin.
Amazon LEO vice president Chris Weber said the constellation now supports continuous service across initial latitudes. This marked the final Atlas V launch for the project.
Future missions will shift to ULA's Vulcan rocket and Blue Origin's New Glenn vehicle. Director of Launch Systems Melissa Wuerl noted that hundreds of satellites are ready at the Cape for upcoming flights. Initial service rollout is planned for later this year.
