Reflect Orbital's Eärendil-1 space mirror approved for test launch

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has granted Reflect Orbital permission to launch its experimental satellite Eärendil‑1, an 18‑meter reflective mirror to be placed in low‑Earth orbit at about 625 km. The satellite will be able to direct sunlight onto a ground spot roughly 5–6 km in diameter, with brightness ranging from full‑moon level to daylight‑like intensity. The company says the technology could provide on‑demand illumination for solar‑farm extension, emergency response, night‑time construction and other applications, effectively keeping solar panels productive after sunset.

Reflect Orbital envisions a future constellation of up to 50 000 such mirrors by 2035, but the FCC approval currently covers only the single test unit. The agency received nearly 2 000 public comments, most from astronomers and environmental groups. The European Southern Observatory’s Betty Kioko called the project an “existential threat” to optical astronomy, and Dark Sky International warned of increased light‑pollution, disruption of wildlife circadian rhythms, and potential hazards to pilots and amateur astronomers. The FCC noted its authority is limited to radio‑frequency regulation and does not extend to environmental or safety impacts. The test will assess whether the thin, deployable mylar reflector can be reliably unfolded and precisely steered in orbit.