FCC Approves Space Mirror Test: Reflect Orbital to Launch Sunlight Satellite in 2026

The US Federal Communications Commission approved Reflect Orbital’s plan to test Eärendil-1, a satellite equipped with an 18-meter (60-foot) mirror designed to reflect sunlight onto Earth’s surface after dark. The California startup received its license on Thursday and plans to launch the prototype later this year. If successful, the company aims to deploy 50,000 larger satellites by 2035 to provide on-demand daylight for construction, emergency rescue, and solar farm operations.

How the space mirror works

Eärendil-1 is roughly the size of a domestic refrigerator and will orbit at approximately 400 miles (640 kilometres) altitude. Once deployed, its square mirror will redirect sunlight onto a circular area roughly 5 kilometres wide on Earth’s surface. The reflected light could illuminate construction sites overnight, extend solar farm generation after sunset, and provide emergency lighting during disasters. Future satellites planned for 2028 could carry mirrors nearly 180 feet (55 metres) wide, producing illumination equivalent to about 100 full moons.

Astronomers raise serious concerns

The American Astronomical Society and international astronomers have strongly opposed the project. They warn that reflected sunlight could overwhelm sensitive telescope detectors and interfere with ground-based observations. Scientists also fear that flashes of light during mirror repositioning could temporarily impair pilots and motorists. Artificial nighttime illumination could disrupt circadian rhythms in humans, animals, and plants. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s chief scientist, Tony Tyson, expressed particular concern about the project’s impact on astronomical research.

FCC sidesteps safety questions

The FCC said that risks raised during approval fell outside its regulatory responsibilities. The commission stated that environmental and safety concerns were unrelated to its role in authorizing radiofrequency spectrum use. Reflect Orbital’s CEO Ben Nowack said the company is grateful for the approval and has developed safeguards to test the technology’s efficacy. The license currently permits deployment of only one satellite at a time.

Ambitious expansion plans ahead

Reflect Orbital plans to launch approximately 1,000 larger satellites by 2028 before scaling to 50,000 by 2035. The company describes itself as “The Sunlight Company” and aims to make “clean, abundant energy available on demand.” Each satellite could provide illumination comparable to 36,000 lux for hours matching daylight, or 100 lux continuously for indoor working areas. The success of Eärendil-1’s demonstration will determine whether orbital mirrors become a practical technology or remain an experimental concept.

Final Thoughts

Reflect Orbital’s FCC approval marks a significant step toward testing space-based sunlight technology, though the project faces substantial scientific opposition. The satellite test will reveal whether the technology can deliver practical benefits without disrupting astronomy or human health.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.