Policy · 2h ago
FCC Approves Launch of Mirror Satellite That Could Brighten Night Sky
The FCC has authorized Reflect Orbital to launch Eärendil-1, a satellite designed to reflect sunlight onto Earth at night. The European Southern Observatory warns the satellite poses an existential threat to optical astronomy. The launch raises concerns about light pollution and its impact on scientific research.
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The approval of a mirror satellite highlights a growing tension between commercial space ventures and the preservation of dark skies for astronomy.
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The US Approves the Launch of a Mirror Satellite That Can Reflect Sunlight and Illuminate the Earth at Night →
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