Amazon’s Project Kuiper Confirms Its Super-Fast Satellite Communication Technology Works in Space
Optical Inter-Satellite Links (OISL) to Increase Throughput and Reduce Latency
Amazon has successfully validated the key technology that will increase throughput and reduce latency for customers using its satellite internet service, Project Kuiper. The company has been working on developing Optical Inter-Satellite Links (OISL), a type of optical communication that uses infrared lasers to send data between spacecraft in orbit.
Understanding OISL Technology
Optical inter-satellite links have been around for a while and have enabled inter-satellite communications. However, earlier generations were limited to linking just two satellites at a time. Amazon’s Project Kuiper has overcome this limitation by developing a mesh network that will allow its satellites to connect with many other spacecraft simultaneously.
Key Benefits of OISL Technology
The mesh capability is key to the success of OISL technology. With it, Project Kuiper says it will be able to move data around 30% faster than terrestrial fiber optical cables sending data along an equivalent distance. This means that customers using Project Kuiper’s satellite internet service will enjoy faster and more reliable connectivity.
Overcoming Challenges in Developing OISL Technology
Developing OISL technology has not been without its challenges. The lasers must have a narrow, very accurate beam to ensure contact up to 1,616 miles away, while spacecraft are moving at speeds of up to 15,534 miles per hour, with all the attendant orbital dynamics involved. Amazon’s optics and control system overcomes all of these hurdles.
Impressive Test Results
The tests are certainly impressive: After launching the prototypes in October, Amazon says it has completed multiple demonstrations of its OISL technology, during which the satellites maintain 100 gigabits per second links over a distance of more than 620 miles. "These tests validated the final component of Project Kuiper’s advanced communications architecture, and the results ensure that OISLs will be operational on our first production satellites, slated for launch in the first half of 2024," the company said.
Amazon’s Commitment to Project Kuiper
Amazon confirmed last month that it had validated all systems and subsystems on the two prototype satellites. However, this is the first time the company has revealed the details behind the advanced OISL architecture. "With optical inter-satellite links across our satellite constellation, Project Kuiper will effectively operate as a mesh network in space," said Rajeev Badyal, Vice President of Technology at Project Kuiper.
Project Kuiper’s Future Plans
Amazon expects to have enough satellites deployed to begin early customer pilots in the latter half of 2024. The full constellation, which must launch by July 2029 per the company’s license with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission, will be composed of 3,236 satellites in low Earth orbit.
Conclusion
Project Kuiper’s successful validation of OISL technology is a significant milestone for Amazon and its satellite internet service. The use of optical inter-satellite links will enable faster and more reliable connectivity for customers, making it an attractive option for those in rural or underserved areas. As the company continues to work towards launching its full constellation, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the world of satellite internet.