Kuiper manages 100 Gb/s laser links
December 18, 2023
By Chris Forrester
A prototype pair of Project Kuiper satellites have managed to exchange data at rates of up to 100 Gb/s in space laser trials.
The two satellites were launched in October and the laser links activated despite the satellites travelling at almost 1000 kilometres per hour and with 999 kilometres (621 miles) separating the two spacecraft.
Amazon had kept secret the installation of these laser devices on the two test craft. However, Project Kuiper is understood to be planning to equip each of its future satellites with “multiple optical terminals”.
Amazon says that once in orbit its Kuiper satellites will then operate a global mesh network. Amazon says that lasers can move data about 30 per cent faster than terrestrial fibre optic cables.
“Amazon’s optical mesh network will provide multiple paths to route data through space, creating resiliency and redundancy for customers who need to securely transport information around the world,” said Ricky Freeman, VP/Kuiper Government Solutions. “This is especially important for those looking to avoid communications architectures that can be intercepted or jammed.”
Amazon will start major deployment of its fleet in the first six months of 2024 and initiate beta-test pilots later in 2024. Amazon plans to install 3,236 satellites into low Earth orbit by the end of 2026 to provide broadband to areas with little or no Internet access.
Kuiper’s rival is Elon Musk’s Starlink and it is operating more than 8000 space lasers on its fleet of more than 5,000 satellites.