The Space Race Gets Real
SpaceX is basically doing the most right now. Today, they’re attempting to launch the first batch of Starlink V3 satellites, and they’re doing it on the Starship rocket—marking the first time they’ve tried to put this specific hardware into Earth orbit. These V3 upgrades are expected to be a total glow-up for their already massive network.
The Amazon L-Streak
Meanwhile, the vibes for Amazon’s Project Kuiper are officially off. They haven’t had a successful satellite deployment in twelve weeks. While they’ve managed to get 396 satellites into orbit, that’s literally nothing compared to Starlink’s 11,000-plus fleet.
It’s giving 'main character syndrome' for SpaceX and 'struggle bus' for Amazon. Their launch partners are falling like dominoes:
- ULA: Their Vulcan rocket has been grounded by the US Space Force since February 2026 after a booster anomaly.
- Blue Origin: The Jeff Bezos-owned company has had their New Glenn rocket grounded since their only launchpad was destroyed in May.
- Arianespace: Amazon tried to pivot by ordering six more A64 launches, but even those are dealing with component issues that will likely delay everything for the rest of 2026.
Why it matters
Amazon was supposed to launch a limited version of its internet service by mid-2026, but that deadline came and went with total radio silence. They have an FCC mandate to get half of their 3,232-satellite constellation into space, and they are moving at a glacial pace. At this rate, Starlink is going to maintain its absolute monopoly on global space internet for the foreseeable future. Say less.
