Kuiper Turns In Orbital Debris Mitigation Plan

Amazon's planned 3,236-satellite Kuiper broadband constellation won't rely on mechanical release bands, breakaway mechanisms or mechanical cutaway devices when releasing from the launch rockets, cutting down on the possibility of orbital debris, the company told the FCC International Bureau in its orbital debris plan last week. The constellation's 2020 OK (see 2007310057) was conditioned on submission of the plan. Amazon said its analysis of different potential loss-of-control scenarios during deployment found that in each case the satellites would deorbit in less than 10 years due to atmospheric drag. It said it's using component design and shielding to protect components and help ensure the satellites can withstand impact by small debris and remain operable. Two Kuiper prototypes are scheduled for launch by Q4 2022 (see 2111010044).