# Sunlight at night: US startup’s demonstration of lighting Earth from space draws critcism

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/sunlight-at-night-us-startups-demonstration-of-lighting-earth-from-space-draws-critcism/
- Published: 2026-10-26T12:00:41+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-26T13:05:06+00:00
- Original publisher: The Guardian (publisher lean: Left)
- Original article: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/oct/26/california-sunlight-space-mirrors-satellites
- Topics: Americas, Art, Business, Celebrity, Companies, Culture, Entertainment, Environment, Geopolitics, Markets, Offbeat, Politics, Research, Science, Space, Technology, Weird & Viral, World

## Key points

- Reflect Orbital tested night-time lighting in California.
- The company aims to launch 50,000 mirror satellites.
- Scientists and environmental groups warn of harm to wildlife and astronomy.

## Summary

A US startup, Reflect Orbital, has demonstrated bright night-time lighting in California as a preview of its plan to reflect sunlight from satellites onto Earth. The technology could provide light for search-and-rescue teams and other emergency responders, but has drawn criticism over its possible effects on wildlife, people and the night sky.

The demonstration near Lone Pine used large lights by Mount Whitney to mimic the reflection of a full moon; locals described the illumination as dazzling. The company aims to launch 50,000 mirror-equipped satellites over the next decade. The FCC approved an initial demonstration satellite for next year, while four groups represented by Earthjustice have asked the commission to reconsider its approval, citing environmental and astronomical concerns.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.