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Space mirrors could light Earth and alter night sky
The gist
Reflect Orbital plans satellites with large mirrors to reflect sunlight onto Earth's night side.
Astronomers warn the added light could disrupt observatories and wildlife that need darkness.
How it unfolded
- recentlyDavid Küpper posts on LinkedIn that Reflect Orbital is developing satellites with large mirrors to redirect sunlight to specific areas after sunset, to extend solar farm operating hours or provide light in emergencies.
- Sep 12, 2026A Facebook post titled "Soon, You Could Order Sunlight After Dark" states bright orbital mirrors could interfere with astronomical observations, increase artificial light at night, and disrupt wildlife that depends on natural darkness.
- Sep 13, 2026Lake County News reports a recent European Southern Observatory study found current proposals to launch over 1.7 million satellites into orbit, including extremely [sic].