What Happened
Startup Aims to Transform Industries with Clean Technology
Reflect Orbital, a California-based startup, has received a license from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch and operate its first demonstration satellite, Eärendil-1. The satellite will unfurl a reflective surface that measures about 60 feet on a side, and the company aims to operate 50,000 or more such mirror-craft in low Earth orbit by 2035. The technology could aid various industries, such as search and rescue, construction, and solar energy, and reduce carbon emissions. However, some experts have raised concerns about the potential impact on the night sky and wildlife. This development was first reported by Space.com.