FCC Greenlights Controversial Space Mirror Despite Astronomer Backlash

WHO:

Engadget - Reflect Orbital, a California-based startup, is involved in the satellite project.

PCMag UK - The American Astronomical Society expressed concerns regarding the satellite's impact.

WHAT:

PCMag UK - The FCC approved Reflect Orbital's plan to launch a satellite named Earendil-1, which will use a giant mirror to reflect sunlight to Earth after dark.

PCMag UK - The satellite will feature a steerable thin-film reflector measuring about 60 feet by 60 feet.

PCMag UK - The reflected light from the satellite is expected to cover an area approximately 3 miles wide on the ground.

PCMag UK - The FCC received over 1,800 public comments regarding the application, many of which objected to the plan.

PCMag UK - Reflect Orbital envisions operating over 50,000 satellites by 2035.

WHERE:

PCMag UK - The satellite will be launched and operated in low-Earth orbit.

WHEN:

PCMag UK - Reflect Orbital plans to launch the Earendil-1 later this year.

WHY:

PCMag UK - The FCC stated that the approval is in the public interest to support testing of innovative technology that could advance American leadership in space.

PCMag UK - The approval is for a single demonstration satellite to test Reflect Orbital’s technology for shining sunlight back to Earth.

HOW:

PCMag UK - The FCC noted that the concerns regarding the satellite's solar reflector are unrelated to its role in authorizing the use of radiofrequency spectrum.

PCMag UK - Reflect Orbital plans to conduct independent, third-party research on the impacts of its technology through both independent researchers and federal partners.

(UPDATED July 10, 2026 22:25 UTC)

The FCC has approved Reflect Orbital's plan to launch a satellite named Earendil-1, which will use a giant mirror to reflect sunlight back to Earth after dark, covering an area approximately three miles wide. This California-based startup envisions operating over 50,000 satellites by 2035, with the first launch of Earendil-1 planned for later this year in low-Earth orbit. While the American Astronomical Society has expressed concerns about the satellite's impact, the FCC maintains that the approval supports innovative technology that could enhance American leadership in space.