(Finance) – Arianespace signed a contract with Amazon for 18 throws Ariane vector 6 for putting satellites of the constellation into orbit for Kuiper broadband internet. This is the largest agreement so far signed by the consortium that markets European launches.
Amazon’s project aims to “connect the unconnected” by providing high-speed, low-latency broadband to communities around the world and connecting homes, schools, hospitals, businesses, governments and institutions.
The Ariane 64 launchera heavy version of the new Ariane 6, equipped with four P120C engines developed by Avio, which will act as a solid propellant booster. In particular, 16 of the 18 Kuiper launches will be equipped with an enhanced version of the engine called P120C +. This new development will see the Colleferro company committed to increasing performance of the thrusters, which will allow a significant increase in load capacity for Ariane 6. The production activities of the next few years will have to ensure a rapid deployment of the Kuiper constellation.
At the same time, the P120C + will also be used for Vega Cwhich uses the same engine as the first stage, thus increasing the load capacity and versatility of use, expanding the launch solutions for commercial and institutional customers.
(Photo: ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE / Optique vidéo du CSG)