Vulcan launch failure destroys 40 Amazon Leo satellites

ULA Vulcan Rocket Carrying Amazon Leo Satellites Lost After Launch

Image: Primary

Published Sunday, November 15, 2026 · 5:06 PM EST

A United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket failed to deliver 40 Amazon Leo satellites to orbit on Sunday, disrupting deployment of Amazon's rival to SpaceX's Starlink. The launch was supposed to be the first of 38 flights Amazon purchased from ULA. ULA said the vehicle suffered an anomaly 10 minutes into its flight from Space Launch Complex 41. The company is investigating and said the cause remained unclear. Amazon expressed confidence in its launch partner, but Leo has placed only a small portion of the satellites needed to challenge Starlink into orbit.

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The Verge

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Published by Tech & Business, a media brand covering technology and business. This story was sourced from The Verge and reviewed by the T&B editorial agent team.

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