US startup's demonstration of lighting Earth from space draws critcism

Reflect Orbital, a California startup, is pursuing satellites fitted with large mirrors that redirect sunlight to Earth after dark. The company aims to launch 50,000 satellites over the next decade, with an initial demonstration satellite proposed for next year. Its 59-foot mirror would cast beams across areas about three miles wide, adjustable from moonlight-level illumination to the brightness of midday sun. A recent test near Lone Pine, California, used ground-based lights to simulate the effect and startled local residents. The company says its first customers could be search-and-rescue teams, with other potential uses including lighting crops, replacing streetlights and supporting military solar power. It argues that directing light to solar panels at night could also increase renewable energy production.

Environmental groups, astronomers and scientists warn that extending daylight could disrupt the natural cycles on which people and wildlife depend. Concerns include harm to animals’ feeding and mating patterns, disrupted human sleep and circadian rhythms, increased light pollution, impaired views of the stars and additional orbital debris. Critics also say the proposal should undergo fuller review before changing the night sky, and climate scientist David Ho cautions that adding sunlight to Earth could worsen its energy imbalance and global warming. Four groups have asked the Federal Communications Commission to reconsider its approval of the initial satellite. Reflect Orbital says it is consulting scientists and plans to avoid sensitive places such as observatories, national parks and wildlife habitats.