Recently, United Launch Alliance (ULA) canceled its second scheduled launch attempt of the year. This launch mission was originally part of Amazon's Kuiper Project, aimed at competing with SpaceX's Starlink internet constellation.

ULA President and CEO Tory Bruno pointed out that a potential issue with the gaseous nitrogen purge line was the main reason for the launch cancellation. He stated on social media: "We're taking a pause today. We'll get this sorted and be back."

Due to Monday's launch cancellation, the ULA Atlas V rocket carrying 27 Amazon Kuiper Project satellites may attempt a backup launch window on Tuesday between 1:04p.m. and 1:34p.m. Eastern Time, at Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The weather squadron predicts a 75% chance of favorable conditions for Tuesday's launch.

This Atlas V rocket is one of ULA's remaining 14, with 7 already reserved for Amazon. Amazon plans to launch more than 3,200 satellites for its Kuiper Project into orbit by 2028 to enhance its internet service capabilities.

In addition to the Atlas V rocket, Amazon has purchased an additional 38 launches on ULA's new Vulcan rocket, as well as launch missions from Blue Origin, Arianespace, and even SpaceX, totaling more than 80 launches to catch up with SpaceX.

ULA has been working to increase its launch cadence and is currently building a second vertical integration facility at Cape Canaveral to prepare two rockets simultaneously. Its goal is to increase the launch frequency on the Space Coast to at least twice a month.

Bruno stated that ULA hopes to increase the number of launches per year to at least 24 by the end of 2026. The company, a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin established in 2006, was the primary launch provider for national security missions before SpaceX entered the competition.