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The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has authorisedReflect Orbital, a U.S.-based startup, to launch Eärendil-1, an experimental satellite designed to deploy a large orbital mirror that can reflect sunlight onto selected locations on Earth during nighttime.

About Eärendil-1

Eärendil-1 is the first satellite mission planned by Reflect Orbital to demonstrate the feasibility of space-based sunlight reflection. The project seeks to provide artificial illumination after sunset by redirecting sunlight from orbit to designated locations on Earth.

The satellite is intended to support applications such as extending solar power generation, providing emergency lighting during disasters and humanitarian operations, and supporting industrial and agricultural activities requiring additional illumination.

How Does it Work?

Eärendil-1 will operate in a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 600–650 km. It will carry a deployable, highly specular (mirror-like) thin-film reflector capable of reflecting sunlight towards specific regions on Earth.

The reflector is motorised and steerable, allowing it to change orientation and direct reflected sunlight to selected locations during nighttime.

Potential Significance

If successfully demonstrated, the technology could:

• Extend the operating hours of solar panels by providing additional sunlight after sunset.
• Support disaster response and humanitarian relief operations where conventional lighting infrastructure is unavailable.
• Improve productivity in sectors such as agriculture, construction and industrial operations.
• Contribute to greater energy availability by supplementing renewable energy systems.