Episode Details

Reflect Orbital’s Eärendil-1 satellite, designed to beam sunlight down to Earth and power solar panels at night, is set to launch — but it’s sparking global alarm. With a vision to deploy 50,000 mirrors in orbit, the company faces fierce opposition from astronomers and environmental groups who warn of catastrophic impacts on stargazing, ecosystems, and nighttime darkness. Critics say even one satellite could blind telescopes and flood skies with light 2-4 times brighter than the full moon. While Reflect Orbital claims it’s open to regulation and eager to collaborate, it’s pressing ahead with its first 142-kilogram test satellite — all while navigating a regulatory void and mounting scientific resistance.

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