E-commerce giant Amazon has unveiled its ambitious plan to launch its first internet satellites into space in the first half of 2024. This is part of its satellite internet division, Project Kuiper, which aims to provide broadband internet access to unserved and underserved communities across the globe.

What is Project Kuiper?

Project Kuiper is Amazon’s satellite internet division that aims to put over 3,000 satellites into low-Earth orbit over the next few years. Amazon plans to start mass-producing satellites in 2023. The company has partnered with the Boeing-Lockheed joint venture United Launch Alliance to launch two prototype satellites early this year (2023). The tech giant has also introduced a low-cost consumer terminal for Project Kuiper, capable of 400 Mbps download speeds.

Project Kuiper has three main components:
  1. Ground infrastructure: Amazon’s ground infrastructure includes gateway antennas that securely send and receive customer data to and from satellites, along with telemetry, tracking, and control (TT&C) antennas that keep the satellites properly operating. Global networking connects those gateway antennas to the internet, public cloud, or private networks.
  2. Satellites: The satellites operate in low Earth orbit (LEO) and relay data traffic to and from the gateway antennas and customers.
  3. Customer terminals: These are the technologies that Project Kuiper customers use to receive broadband service. The terminals combine antennas and processors into a single, compact system to deliver connectivity.
Project Kuiper Applications

Project Kuiper aims to serve unserved and underserved communities across the globe by providing reliable access to broadband internet. This will help them access modern communications, education, health services, and other important resources.

MCQs about Amazon’s Project Kuiper
  1. What is Project Kuiper?
    A. Amazon’s satellite internet division
    B. A new e-commerce platform by Amazon
    C. Amazon’s new health initiative
    D. Amazon’s new payment system
    Correct Answer: A. Amazon’s satellite internet division
    Explanation: The first paragraph of the essay clearly states that Project Kuiper is Amazon’s satellite internet division.
  2. What are the main components of Project Kuiper?
    A. Satellites, ground infrastructure, and customer terminals
    B. Satellites, drones, and customer terminals
    C. Ground infrastructure, customer support, and drones
    D. Satellites, customer support, and drones
    Correct Answer: A. Satellites, ground infrastructure, and customer terminals
    Explanation: The essay states that Project Kuiper has three main components: ground infrastructure, satellites, and customer terminals.
  3. What is the aim of Project Kuiper?
    A. To provide broadband internet access to unserved and underserved communities
    B. To launch rockets into space
    C. To sell low-cost consumer terminals
    D. To mass-produce satellites
    Correct Answer: A. To provide broadband internet access to unserved and underserved communities
    Explanation: The essay highlights that the main aim of Project Kuiper is to serve communities that have been left behind in the digital age by providing them with reliable access to broadband internet.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading