US startup's space-based night lighting draws criticism
The gist
California startup Reflect Orbital's demo of lighting Earth from space drew pushback from scientists, environmentalists and locals.
Its first satellite will test whether selling sunlight after dark is feasible or acceptable.
How it unfolded
- Jul 2026The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorised Reflect Orbital to deploy and operate Eärendil-1, but the licence only covers radio communications — specified frequencies for satellite telemetry and control.
- Oct 21, 2026Reflect Orbital used ground spotlights, not satellites, to simulate orbital rescue lighting in the Mojave.
- Oct 25, 2026The Conversation reported Reflect Orbital has booked two Indian rocket launches with Skyroot Aerospace, using the Vikram-1 rocket and the in-development Vikram-1U.