Astronomers Alarmed by FCC-Approved Orbital Sun-Reflecting Mirror

The FCC has approved Reflect Orbital to launch Earendil-1, a 60-foot mirror in low Earth orbit that could reflect sunlight to Earth for powering solar installations, with plans for up to 50,000 mirrors by 2035. The prototype would illuminate a nine-square-mile area for about five minutes. Scientists warn the project could disrupt optical astronomy by brightening and cluttering the night sky, alter circadian rhythms in humans and wildlife, and impact phytoplankton, drawing intense criticism and hundreds of public comments, even as supporters say it could help replace fossil fuels.