Reflect Orbital Gets FCC License for Space Mirror Satellite to Light Earth at Night

Startup Reflect Orbital has received an FCC license to launch a demonstration satellite carrying a 60-foot Mylar mirror that would reflect sunlight onto targeted areas of Earth after nightfall. A single satellite can provide only about 3.5 minutes of continuous light per orbit, meaning a constellation of up to 50,000 craft would be needed for commercial coverage. Astronomers warn of light pollution and potential harm to wildlife.

• FCC granted Reflect Orbital a license for a demo satellite launching via SpaceX rideshare
• The 60-foot Mylar panel reflects sunlight onto a predetermined patch of land or sea
• One satellite provides about 3.5 minutes of light per orbit; up to 50,000 are needed
• Astronomers say 3,000 satellites would be required for 20% of midday sun brightness