Scientists alarmed by company’s plan to launch 4,000 space mirrors

Scientists alarmed by company’s plan to launch 4,000 space mirrors (Image: Canva)

A US startup, Reflect Orbital, plans a vast mirror constellation. The company intends to launch over 4,000 giant reflective satellites. These mirrors would beam sunlight onto Earth during twilight hours. Their stated goal is to extend natural light for human use.

What Is the Company Planning?

The first satellite, named Eärendil-1, will launch next April. It carries a large 18-metre square mirror for testing purposes. Each mirror aims to reflect sunlight for agriculture and energy generation. Reflect Orbital calls this concept “light on demand” for customers.

Why Are Scientists Concerned?

Astronomers warn of catastrophic impacts on night-sky visibility worldwide. The refractors would be brighter than the stars, permanently injuring terrestrial astronomical observations.

Scientists are concerned that the contours will be four times brighter rather than fully sun lighted as the Moon is. This kind of light pollution would even vanish such dim celestial bodies.

Impact on the environment of the Earth

There is a danger to the animals that depend on natural darkness as ecologists warn. The artificial lights may interfere with nature significantly with the birds, insects, and the night ecosystems.

Even light rays that occur temporarily may disorient the navigation and the reproduction cycle of wildlife. This interference would cascade through delicate environmental and biological networks quickly.

What Does the Company Say?

Reflect Orbital insists safety and responsibility guide its engineering design approach. The first trial will illuminate a controlled five-kilometre ground area only. The mirror tilts away when not in use, preventing overexposure. The firm also promises environmental assessments with independent expert collaboration.

Next for Space Policy

Astronomers urge international regulation to prevent uncontrolled reflective satellite deployments. They fear growing commercial projects may threaten the shared cosmic heritage.

From a scientific perspective, experts call the proposal “pretty catastrophic.” Debate continues over balancing innovation with protection of Earth’s night skies.