Despite facing opposition in hundreds of public comments, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved a project by Reflect Orbital involving a giant space mirror that would reflect a beam of light back to Earth. The company promotes this initiative as “sunlight on demand,” suggesting applications in agriculture, solar energy, and rescue operations. Concerns raised by astronomers and various groups include potential harm to wildlife relying on unpolluted night skies, interference with astronomical research, and risks such as flash-blinding pilots and eye damage from the reflected light.
Reflect Orbital’s plan, approved for one satellite currently, outlines launching 50,000 satellites by 2035. This adds to the millions of satellites proposed by other companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, contributing to the growing congestion in Earth’s orbit.
The regulation of activities in outer space falls under the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), with more than 115 countries signatory to the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, emphasizing peaceful space utilization while considering the interests of all parties involved. While placing reflective objects in orbit is not explicitly prohibited by international treaties, it remains a regulated activity subject to consultation and compliance with other states’ concerns.
Experts suggest the need for specific regulations to address concerns surrounding projects like Reflect Orbital’s space mirror. The company acknowledges the importance of oversight and collaboration with governments, scientists, and regulators to shape responsible deployment practices.
Initiatives are underway to protect dark and quiet skies from the impacts of space-based illumination, with organizations like the International Astronomical Union working with satellite providers to minimize the interference of satellite constellations with astronomical observations. Collaboration between astronomers and Reflect Orbital aims to study the effects of the project’s first satellite and assess its implications for astronomy.