FCC approves Reflect Orbital's Eärendil-1 space mirror, raising astronomy and safety concerns

FCC Approves Space Mirror Satellite

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted approval for Reflect Orbital to launch its Eärendil-1 test satellite. This satellite is an 18-square-meter mirror intended to reflect sunlight onto specific areas on Earth. Reflect Orbital envisions a future fleet of up to 50,000 such mirrors to provide "sunlight on demand."

Intended Uses and Brightness

The company states that Eärendil-1 will create a 5-kilometer-wide beam of light. Potential applications include boosting agricultural yields, assisting search and rescue operations at night, illuminating streets, and providing lighting for construction projects. The satellite's illumination is estimated to be as bright as Venus from outside the beam and four times brighter than the Moon within the beam.

Concerns from Astronomers

Astronomers have raised significant concerns regarding the approval of Eärendil-1. They warn that the extreme brightness of the satellite could severely hinder astronomical observations, making it difficult to study the cosmos. There are also public safety concerns, including the potential for permanent eye damage for individuals using telescopes if they are in the path of the reflected light.

Historical Context and Future Implications

The concept of space mirrors for illumination or energy generation has been explored for over a century, with Russian scientists conducting experiments like the Znamya project in the 1990s. Reflect Orbital's current initiative revives this idea, but the potential for widespread deployment of 50,000 mirrors raises questions about the long-term impact on scientific research and public safety.