FCC Approves Sun-Reflecting Satellite

The FCC has cleared Reflect Orbital to launch Eärendil-1, a 142-kilogram satellite equipped with an 18-meter square mirror. The spacecraft is designed to reflect sunlight onto Earth at night, targeting a 3-mile radius to potentially power solar panels after sunset.

While the company aims to eventually deploy 50,000 satellites, the plan faces significant opposition from astronomers and groups like DarkSky International, who cite concerns over global ecological and light pollution consequences.