The US Approves Launch of Mirror Satellite That Can Reflect Sunlight and Illuminate the Earth at Night

WIRED examined the FCC's authorization of Reflect Orbital's Eärendil-1 satellite, which will deploy an 18-meter reflective surface in low Earth orbit. The satellite is designed to illuminate targeted areas on Earth at night and could cover an area approximately 5 to 6 kilometers in diameter. The article also detailed objections from astronomers and environmental organizations concerned about the potential consequences of reflected sunlight and future constellation expansion.