Amazon set for the launch of Project Kuiper, but one factor might obstruct it once more.

      Atlas V Flight Path: Launching Project Kuiper into LEO

      Amazon is eager to place its first Project Kuiper satellites into orbit, aiming to establish a service that could eventually compete with SpaceX's Starlink, which currently provides broadband access to over five million customers worldwide.

      The tech giant plans to launch 27 Project Kuiper internet satellites aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on Monday evening.

      The initial launch of the Project Kuiper satellites was scheduled for April 9 but was postponed due to unstable weather conditions, which led the mission team to stop the countdown just before liftoff.

      Weather may also pose risks for Monday’s launch.

      The latest update from the mission’s meteorological team indicates a 75% likelihood of suitable launch conditions.

      Although the weather has been fairly good throughout the weekend, central Florida is expected to experience scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms on Monday.

      “The launch window could encounter shower activity along the coast due to onshore winds, along with afternoon or early evening thunderstorms primarily inland and over western Florida due to interactions with the sea breeze,” the weather team stated. They further noted, “Thunderstorms may also develop over the Gulf Stream. While steering currents seem likely to keep most thunderstorm activity away from [Cape Canaveral], anvil clouds could still present challenges.”

      If the weather is unfavorable for launch, a backup opportunity is available on Tuesday, with forecasters predicting a 90% chance of a successful liftoff that day.

      “For the backup day, high pressure with drier air is anticipated to return to the Space Coast,” the meteorological team reported.

      ULA has released a visibility map (below) illustrating where individuals on the East Coast can witness the Atlas V ascent into orbit, assuming clear skies.

      Curious about how to view the #AtlasV launch for the #Kuiper1 mission for #Amazon? This visibility map indicates the optimal times and locations to see the rocket take off on Monday at 7 p.m. EDT as it heads northeast into space. Live updates and webcast:… pic.twitter.com/Yk6KoJmsFw— ULA (@ulalaunch) April 27, 2025

      Over the next four years, Amazon intends to deploy over 3,000 Project Kuiper internet satellites into low-Earth orbit to deliver fast and reliable internet to customers worldwide, particularly those in underserved and unserved communities.

      To accelerate deployment, Amazon will utilize not only ULA’s Atlas V rocket but also its newer Vulcan vehicle, capable of carrying up to 45 Amazon satellites per flight. Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket will also be involved in launching Project Kuiper satellites.

      Want to watch Amazon launch its first Project Kuiper satellites into orbit? Digital Trends has all the information you need.

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      Next week promises excitement for skywatchers, as the Lyrid meteor shower will be visible over the weekend, peaking on Monday night. If you're eager to witness this delightful cosmic display, Robert Massey, Deputy Executive Director of the Royal Astronomical Society, has provided guidance on how to achieve the best view from your location. The Lyrids can be observed from April 17 to April 26, with the peak occurring on the evening of April 21 to 22. While you won't observe long, bright streaks typical of other meteor showers, brief flashes known as fireballs may be visible.

      Amazon announces new launch date for Project Kuiper

      Amazon’s first launch of its Project Kuiper internet satellites on April 9 did not occur due to inclement weather, which led to a postponement.

      Up until Thursday, no updates were provided by Amazon or United Launch Alliance (ULA), the operator of the Atlas V rocket designated for the satellite launch, regarding a new target date. However, on Friday, they finally released the updated schedule.

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