Reflect Orbital Plans Space Mirrors to Deliver On-Demand Sunlight
Startup Reflect Orbital plans to launch a satellite system with giant mirrors to provide on-demand sunlight after sunset for 5,000 dollars an hour, drawing concerns from astronomers over light pollution.
American startup Reflect Orbital is developing a satellite system equipped with giant mirrors to reflect sunlight from space to specific locations on Earth after sunset. The company plans to charge approximately 5,000 dollars per hour of illumination, targeting applications such as disaster zones, rescue operations, and extending the operating hours of solar power plants.
The concept relies on satellites positioned at appropriate altitudes that remain exposed to sunlight even after dark. Reflect Orbital aims to deploy a constellation of thousands of satellites in the coming years. On October 10, the company conducted a ground-based test in Lone Pine, California, using powerful spotlights to simulate the future illumination, which initially surprised local residents.
Astronomers and environmental experts have raised concerns, warning that thousands of orbital mirrors could increase light pollution, disrupt astronomical observations, and interfere with the circadian rhythms of humans and wildlife. In response, the company states that the illumination can be precisely targeted and controlled.
