Context
Recently, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) cleared a proposal by the U.S.-based startup Reflect Orbital to test a novel space-based lighting system through its Eärendil-1 satellite, which aims to redirect sunlight to designated locations on Earth after dark.
About Eärendil-1
- It is designed to demonstrate the feasibility of redirecting sunlight to selected locations on Earth after sunset using a space-based reflective mirror.
- The satellite will operate in a non-geostationary Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 600–650 km.
- It carries a motorized, highly reflective thin-film mirror that can be deployed in orbit and precisely oriented to redirect sunlight.
- The mission aims to increase the availability of sunlight for solar energy applications beyond natural daylight hours.
- The technology could provide temporary illumination for emergency response, humanitarian assistance, and other critical operations.
- If successfully demonstrated, it could support clean energy, agriculture, industrial activities, and disaster management.
