The US Approves the Launch of a Mirror Satellite That Can Reflect Sunlight and Illuminate the Earth at Night
On July 9, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorized Reflect Orbital to build, launch, and operate a mirror satellite in low Earth orbit. The experimental satellite, named Eärendil-1, would be capable of reflecting sunlight onto specific locations on Earth during the night.
Reported by 2 outlets — WIRED, The Verge. See all sources ↓
On July 9, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorized Reflect Orbital to build, launch, and operate a mirror satellite in low Earth orbit. The experimental satellite, named Eärendil-1, would be capable of reflecting sunlight onto specific locations on Earth during the night. The project has long drawn criticism from astronomers and environmental advocates. WIRED wrote about Reflect Orbital's giant mirror in September 2024, when the project was still in its early stages: “The ambitious goal of the Santa Monica, California–based startup is to ensure a continuous supply of light for large solar panel installations, allowing them to generate electricity even at night and thereby overcoming one of the main limitations of this renewable energy source.” Two years later, the Trump administration has given the green light to this provider of “on-demand” sunlight.
Read the full report at WIRED ↗
Why it matters
2 outlets are covering this world story — one to watch as reporting develops.
- What's the story?
- On July 9, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorized Reflect Orbital to build, launch, and operate a mirror satellite in low Earth orbit. The experimental satellite, named Eärendil-1, would be capable of reflecting sunlight onto specific locations on Earth during the night.
- How widely is it covered?
- 2 outlets, average source rating 6.5/10.
- When was it last updated?
- 11m ago.
How outlets are framing the same story
Here's how each outlet is covering the story — compare their headlines and timing at a glance.
- Coverage card1 outlet1CoverageScouting report
The US Approves the Launch of a Mirror Satellite That Can Reflect Sunlight and Illuminate the Earth at Night
Sources1TypeCoverageWIRED
- Coverage card1 outlet2CoverageScouting report
The first sunlight reflecting space mirror has been cleared for launch
Sources1TypeCoverageThe Verge