FCC Authorizes Reflect Orbital to Test Space Mirror for Earth Illumination

Reflect Orbital, a California-based startup, has secured regulatory clearance from the FCC to test its sunlight-redirecting technology. The company plans to deploy the Eärendil-1 satellite into low Earth orbit later this year. The spacecraft will carry a 18-meter (59-foot) deployable, highly specular thin-film reflector, which the company describes as being similar to a space-grade potato chip bag that unfolds once in orbit.

FCC Regulatory Decision and Jurisdiction

In its July 9 order, the FCC dismissed arguments that the mission would harm optical astronomy or the environment. The agency stated that its regulatory authority is limited to interstate and international communications, radiofrequency interference, and orbital debris. Because the visual impact of reflected sunlight does not fall under these categories, the FCC concluded that concerns regarding light pollution are not a basis for denial of or additional conditions on Reflect Orbital’s operations.

Despite this, the commission did impose specific operational constraints. National Science Foundation, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. Additionally, Eärendil-1 must adhere to specific duty cycles and conjunction angles to mitigate interference with other orbital missions.

Arguments for and Against Sunlight on Demand

Reflect Orbital CEO Ben Nowack envisions a future where sunlight can be managed to support critical infrastructure. The company has identified several potential use cases for its technology, including extending the operating hours of solar farms, assisting in emergency search-and-rescue operations, and providing illumination for industrial sites. Nowack noted that in a search-and-rescue scenario, the whole area around the search and rescue operators gets lit up, and it’s going to be a lot easier to find that person.

However, the project has drawn sharp criticism. Astronomers, including Tony Tyson of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, have described the plans as even crazier than existing satellite constellations.

Environmental researchers also raised concerns regarding biological disruption. Environmentalists warned that the reflected sunlight from a constellation of such spacecraft could disrupt the diurnal cycles of plants and animals.

Technical Feasibility and Future Ambitions

While the company plans to start with a test mission, its long-term goals involve a massive constellation. Reflect Orbital has discussed the possibility of deploying up to 50,000 in-space mirrors mounted on satellites to create sunlight after dark.

The company maintains that it can manage these concerns through strict oversight. Nowack stated that the satellites will be turned off by default and that every delivery of light will be requested, approved and contained. The startup is currently preparing for its initial orbital mission, with plans to test the vehicle in remote locations before considering wider applications.

As Reflect Orbital moves toward its launch, the company continues to assert that it is committed to working with the astronomical community, aiming to systematically avoid redirecting light near observatories while proving the efficacy of its space-based solar technology.

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