FCC Approves Sun-Beaming Satellite, Sparking Astronomers’ Sky-Glow Fears
TL;DR Summary
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.
- Mirrors in Space? The FCC Just Approved a Sun-Reflecting Satellite, and Astronomers Are Worried CNET
- F.C.C. Approves Test of Space Mirror to Light Night Sky Despite Outcry The New York Times
- The US Approves Launch of Mirror Satellite That Can Reflect Sunlight and Illuminate the Earth at Night WIRED
- Southern California company wants to bring daylight to dark parts of Earth KTLA
- A Space Mirror Will Test Turning Night Into Day. What To Know About the Controversial Project Time Magazine
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