F.C.C. Approves Test of Space Mirror to Light Night Sky Despite Outcry

Key Points:

• The Federal Communications Commission has approved Reflect Orbital's plan to launch the Eärendil-1 satellite, which uses a 60-foot mirror to reflect sunlight back to Earth after dark for uses such as powering solar farms and illuminating city streets.
• Reflect Orbital aims to eventually deploy up to 50,000 mirrors in space, but the initial test satellite is planned for launch later this year.
• The project faces strong opposition from astronomers, wildlife experts, and others who warn that the reflected light could disrupt airplane pilots, astronomical observations, and natural circadian rhythms in humans and wildlife.
• The American Astronomical Society criticized the project, stating it would harm federally funded astronomical research and pose risks to human health, agriculture, and wildlife, arguing it does not serve the public interest.
• Critics express concern that the initiative could permanently alter the night sky, impacting scientific research and the natural environment on a global scale.