Amazon hopes that its Project Kuiper satellite internet service will rivalSpaceX’s Starlink.

It’ll also give Amazon a first look at Project Kuiper satellite internet performance.

The prototype satellites, called KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2, contain several onboard systems that will be deployed during orbit.

A piece of the rocket that will send Project Kuiper satellites into orbit.

Amazon

The solar array is of particular importance, as it’s required to maintain satellite power.

If all is in order, Amazon will test the satellites' internet performance.

Consumer-grade Kuiper terminals will also be tested during this period.

Both of the prototype satellites will be deorbited once the “Protoflight” mission is completed.

We don’t knowexactlywhen the “Protoflight” mission will end.

Beta testing with real-world customers should also begin next year.

Alivestreamof the “Protoflight” launch will air on October 6th at 2PM ET (11AM PT).

Note that any incidents experienced by this mission could set back Project Kuiper by several months.