This company's plan to launch 4,000 massive space mirrors has scientists alarmed: 'From an astronomical perspective, that's pretty catastrophic'

image via Space.com

October 21, 2025, 10:00 AM

• •Reflect Orbital plans to launch a demonstration satellite to test its light-on-demand technology.
• •The project aims to provide light after sunset and before sunrise using a constellation of space mirrors.
• •Astronomers and biodiversity experts are concerned about the effects of light pollution from the project.
• •Reflect Orbital says it is addressing concerns and planning environmental impact assessments.

Reflect Orbital, a California-based startup, plans to launch a constellation of solar reflectors to provide light on demand, aiming to extend daytime hours and boost solar power generation. The company has received significant interest from commercial and government partners and secured funding for a demonstration mission next year. However, the project has raised concerns from astronomers and biodiversity experts about light pollution and its potential impact on wildlife and astronomical observations. Reflect Orbital is addressing these concerns by planning environmental impact assessments and promising localized light control during its demonstration mission.

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