BIG READ | US backs giant mirror in space to create ‘sunlight on demand’
The US FCC has approved Reflect Orbital to test a satellite designed to reflect sunlight back to Earth, sparking concerns about safety, astronomy, and environmental impacts. The company plans to scale this to 50,000 satellites by 2035.
Why it matters
The approval highlights the regulatory challenges posed by 'new space' commercial activities and the potential for unintended environmental and scientific consequences.
A giant mirror to create “sunlight on demand” was just approved by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), despite opposition from astronomers, the public and real safety concerns.
The article presents the company's goals alongside significant criticism from experts and the public.
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