Amazon has announced that it will invest $120 million in the construction of a satellite processing facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This facility is part of Amazon’s Project Kuiper, which aims to build a network of 3,236 satellites to provide high-speed internet access worldwide. The processing facility, spanning 100,000 square feet, will be a crucial step in preparing the satellites for launch. It will work in conjunction with the United Launch Alliance and Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos, to send the satellites into orbit.
The location of the facility, the Launch and Landing Facility, was previously used by NASA for Space Shuttle missions and is now operated by Space Florida. Frank DiBello, CEO of Space Florida, expressed excitement about Amazon being the first major tenant at the facility, emphasizing that the entire state supports the space industry.
Steve Metayer, Amazon’s vice president of Kuiper production operations, revealed that construction of the facility will be completed by the end of 2024. The first production satellites will undergo processing in early 2025. In addition, last year Amazon secured a significant rocket deal, booking 77 launches to deploy its satellites efficiently.
The company is eager to launch its first two Kuiper prototype satellites in the coming months. However, the timing depends on the readiness of the rocket that will transport them. Despite delays in the inaugural launch of ULA’s Vulcan rocket, Amazon plans to fly the prototypes on this rocket. If necessary, they will explore alternative options to ensure timely deployment.
Project Kuiper currently employs over 1,400 people and has facilities in various locations, including Seattle, San Diego, Austin, New York City, and Washington, D.C. According to Metayer, Amazon prioritizes talent and chooses locations accordingly.
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[Inline image: An artist’s rendering of the Project Kuiper satellite processing facility in Florida.]
[Inline image: The “ultra-compact” version of the Project Kuiper]
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