A California-based startup, Reflect Orbital, is preparing to launch over 4,000 large mirrors into space, a project aimed at creating what they describe as “light on demand.” This initiative intends to reflect sunlight back to Earth during the night, effectively extending daylight into the early hours of the morning and late evening.
The mirrors are designed to operate in a sun-synchronous orbit, which allows them to hover at the threshold between day and night. As areas on Earth transition into darkness, these satellite mirrors will pivot to direct sunlight onto specific 5-kilometer-wide zones below. The company argues that this could enhance clean energy production during peak usage times, support agricultural activities, facilitate nighttime work, and provide emergency lighting in the aftermath of disasters.
An initial demonstration mission, named EARENDIL-1, is set to launch next year. The venture has garnered attention and financial backing from the US Air Force, along with significant interest from commercial sectors.
However, the project has drawn considerable criticism from the scientific community. Astronomers express concerns that the mirrors could lead to a dramatic increase in light pollution, complicating celestial observations. Some experts estimate that the brightness from these mirrors could exceed that of a full moon, potentially creating “artificial stars” that would disrupt telescopic views and obscure important scientific data.
Environmental scientists also warn of the repercussions for wildlife, which relies on natural darkness for vital activities such as migration, navigation, feeding, and reproduction. Critics argue that the initiative threatens to dismantle the natural cycle of day and night that has been essential to life on Earth for millions of years.
Even with plans to focus the light only on designated areas, scientists argue that the effects of the glow could extend beyond these zones, negatively impacting ecosystems over larger regions. Existing research links increasing light pollution to declining insect populations and disturbances in human sleep patterns. Therefore, critics insist that comprehensive environmental assessments must be conducted before the project can proceed.
In response to these concerns, Reflect Orbital asserts that the light emitted will be “soft and moonlike,” and that the mirrors will be adjusted to avoid unnecessary illumination. The company has expressed intentions to work closely with astronomers and ecologists during the testing phases to modify the design if necessary. Despite these reassurances, skepticism remains prevalent among researchers who fear that the primary goal of this project—illuminating the planet—could set a troubling precedent for future space endeavors.
