🛰️ The US FCC has authorized Reflect Orbital to launch Eärendil-1, an experimental mirror satellite in low Earth orbit, capable of reflecting sunlight at night. The satellite will have an 18-meter reflector and will be deployed at an altitude of about 625 kilometers.

💡 The Santa Monica-based startup aims to provide continuous light for solar panel installations, overcoming a key limitation of renewable energy. The project has faced criticism from astronomers and environmental advocates concerned about light pollution and its impact on observations and nocturnal ecosystems.

🔭 The FCC authorized Eärendil-1 as a single, experimental satellite for technical feasibility testing, stating that concerns about its impact on optical astronomy fall outside the scope of their review. Future large-scale deployments would require new regulatory approvals.

#SpaceTech #RenewableEnergy #FCC