FCC approves space mirror satellite despite astronomers' objections
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has granted Reflect Orbital permission to launch a demonstration satellite that reflects sunlight to Earth at night, overriding concerns from scientists about impacts on astronomy and health.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved Reflect Orbital's request to launch a demonstration satellite designed to reflect sunlight onto Earth during nighttime hours. The satellite, named Earendil-1, features an adjustable, highly reflective thin-film mirror and a built-in propulsion system to avoid collisions and maneuver in low-Earth orbit.
Reflect Orbital envisions operating a Starlink-like network that can provide on-demand sunlight for purposes such as powering solar panels or enhancing visibility for search-and-rescue teams. For now, the company will test its concept with a single satellite.
The idea has drawn sharp criticism from the scientific community. The American Astronomical Society (AAS) met with FCC staff to express concerns, stating that the satellite is designed to be as bright as possible, which would severely impact astronomical research and could cause eye damage to amateur astronomers. The AAS also warned of temporary flash blinding of pilots and drivers. Reflect Orbital itself acknowledged the risk of eye damage if someone views Earendil-1 through a telescope with an aperture larger than 12 inches.
In its decision, the FCC declined to consider these issues, citing the Communications Act, which mandates U.S. policy to encourage the provision of new technologies and services. The commission deemed the new technology to be in the public interest, and said health and environmental concerns are unrelated to its role in authorizing radiofrequency spectrum use.
Reflect Orbital's website lists precautions such as reflecting light only at predetermined times, warning researchers in advance, and avoiding reflections near observatories and protected areas. Whether these measures will be sufficient if the company launches more satellites remains uncertain. The FCC approval raises a broader question: if the regulator licensing these satellites has no mandate to examine what they actually do to the sky or the Earth, then who does?
