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FCC Approves Sun-Beaming Satellite, Sparking Astronomers’ Sky-Glow Fears

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Source: CNET
FCC Approves Sun-Beaming Satellite, Sparking Astronomers’ Sky-Glow Fears
Photo: CNET
TL;DR

The FCC cleared Reflect Orbital’s Eärendil-1, a small satellite with an 18-by-18-meter mirror designed to reflect sunlight to Earth at night to power solar panels, but scientists and astronomers warn that even a prototype could brighten the night sky and interfere with observations; opponents urge regulatory safeguards, while Reflect Orbital envisions a future fleet of up to 50,000 satellites.

Topics:sciencespace#astronomy#earendil-1#light-pollution#reflect-orbital#space#sun-reflecting-satellite
Share this article
  1. Mirrors in Space? The FCC Just Approved a Sun-Reflecting Satellite, and Astronomers Are Worried  CNET
  2. F.C.C. Approves Test of Space Mirror to Light Night Sky Despite Outcry  The New York Times
  3. The US Approves Launch of Mirror Satellite That Can Reflect Sunlight and Illuminate the Earth at Night  WIRED
  4. Southern California company wants to bring daylight to dark parts of Earth  KTLA
  5. A Space Mirror Will Test Turning Night Into Day. What To Know About the Controversial Project  Time Magazine

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