The US Approves the Launch of a Mirror Satellite That Can Reflect Sunlight and Illuminate the Earth at Night
The US FCC has authorized Reflect Orbital to launch a mirror satellite designed to reflect sunlight onto Earth at night. The project aims to extend solar energy production hours but faces criticism from environmentalists and astronomers.
Why it matters
This represents a controversial intersection of space commercialization, renewable energy innovation, and potential light pollution concerns.
On July 9, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorized Reflect Orbital to build, launch, and operate a mirror satellite in low Earth orbit. The experimental satellite, named Eärendil-1, would be capable of reflecting sunlight onto specific locations on Earth during the night. The project has long drawn criticism from astronomers and environmental advocates.
WIRED wrote about Reflect Orbital's giant mirror in September 2024, when the project was still in its early stages: “The ambitious goal of the Santa Monica, California–based startup is to ensure a continuous supply of light for large solar panel installations, allowing them to generate electricity even at night and thereby overcoming one of the main limitations of this renewable energy source.” Two years later, the Trump administration has given the green light to this provider of “on-demand” sunlight.
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