FCC grants radio-equipment approval for Reflect Orbital's sunlight-redirecting satellite
The U.S. communications regulator has authorized the radio systems of Reflect Orbital's Eärendil-1 demonstration satellite, which will test an 18-meter Mylar mirror intended to reflect sunlight onto specific ground locations.
The Federal Communications Commission has approved the radio-frequency equipment for Reflect Orbital's Eärendil-1 satellite, a demonstration platform that will test the feasibility of redirecting sunlight from orbit onto targeted areas on Earth. The agency said the mirror itself falls outside its jurisdiction, as the FCC primarily regulates communications spectrum.
Eärendil-1 is slated for a near-polar orbit about 625 kilometers above the planet and will deploy an 18 × 18-meter aluminized Mylar reflector, providing roughly 324 square meters of reflective surface. The company says the system can sweep a moving beam of sunlight across a strip about five kilometers wide, allowing it to evaluate deployment, control and aiming capabilities.
"The mirrors can be angled away from Earth when not in use and we will coordinate with the astronomical community to limit disruption," a Reflect Orbital spokesperson said.
Reflect Orbital envisions selling "sunlight on demand" to solar farms to extend power generation after sunset, and has also mentioned potential applications in emergency response, construction, agriculture, military operations and large outdoor events. The firm plans to launch additional demonstration units on SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets and has discussed a future constellation of thousands of mirrors by the end of the decade, with a longer-term target of up to 50,000 units.
Astronomers have expressed concerns that a large fleet of reflective satellites could create bright trails in telescope images, increase sky glow and hinder observations of faint celestial objects. Environmental groups have raised issues about possible impacts on nocturnal wildlife, human sleep patterns and aviation safety, as well as the risk of adding to orbital debris. The FCC approval applies only to the radio equipment of the prototype; a full constellation would require separate regulatory clearance and successful demonstration of the technology.