Atlas V 551 – Project Kuiper 2 [Live: 23.06.25; 14:56 UTC]

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(Edited)

ULA's Atlas V rocket will lift the second batch of 27 communication satellites for Amazon's constellation into space. While the Atlas V is not being sold anymore, there are still 15 launches left. 8 for Kuiper, 1 for ViaSat, and 6 for Starliner.
NASA has firmly ordered 3 launches for Starliner and an option for 3 more. It is unclear if those can be completed before the ISS reaches the end of its life in 2030.

Scott Manley: Asymmetrical Atlas V Launches - Kerbal Space Program

Atlas V in 551 configuration means:

5,4 m diameter fairing, 5 solid rocket boosters (SRB), 1 Centaur second stage engine with a payload capacity of 18,8 tons to low-Earth orbit (LEO). 1 launch in that configuration starts at $ 153 million.

ULA: Atlas V Flight Path: Lifting Project Kuiper from Earth to LEO

New Glenn

With a little luck, Blue Origin is not dependent on potentially 3 extra Altas V flights, as they seem to be making progress with their own New Glenn rocket. The next launch has been announced as NET (no earlier than) August 2025. Originally the hope was they could launch 8 times in 2025.
Atlas V will be replaced by Vulcan Centaur.
Further, Blue Origin has booked slots on Falcon 9, Vulcan, and Ariane (List of Kuiper Launches).

Livestream:

The 45th Weather Squadron

FAQ under which conditions a launch will be delayed: Launch Forecast FAQ

Project Kuiper: Project Kuiper's optical mesh network in low Earth orbit

Take a Tour: Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida

Atlas History

Useful links to stay up to date on launches:

Spaceflightnow.com: Launch Schedule

Everyday Astronaut: Prelaunch Previews

NASA Spaceflight nasaspacefight.com

Vote for my witness: @blue-witness
space satellite technology ula amazon kuiper inleo leofinance
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