A Company Got Approval for a Giant Space Mirror. Experts Are Raising Alarms
Summary
A California company called Reflect Orbital got permission from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch a test satellite with a giant mirror in space. The satellite aims to reflect sunlight onto specific parts of Earth to provide light without electricity and boost solar power, but some experts warn it could harm the environment, wildlife, and astronomy.Key Facts
- Reflect Orbital will launch a satellite named Eärendil-1 to test a large reflective mirror in low Earth orbit.
- The mirror will focus sunlight on areas about three miles wide and change position every four minutes as it orbits.
- The project hopes to provide light to places without electricity and increase sunlight for solar farms after dark.
- The FCC approved the mission despite concerns about light pollution and environmental risks, seeing potential public benefits.
- Some scientists warn the reflected light could damage wildlife, disrupt night ecosystems, and interfere with telescope observations.
- Reflect Orbital says it has consulted with experts and has designed the satellite to limit unwanted light and environmental impact.
- The technology is still in a test phase to gather information before any wider use.
- The company plans to have 36 satellites in orbit by 2027 if the tests succeed.
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