Satellite Internet Expands as Startup Plans On-Demand Sunlight at Night
As satellite internet services expand with T-Mobile, SpaceX, and Amazon, a new startup wants to beam sunlight at night using orbital mirrors. The ambitious project faces scientific backlash over light pollution risks to astronomy and ecosystems.
Satellite internet is rapidly transitioning from niche to mainstream, with major carriers like T-Mobile enhancing services for apps including Google Maps and WhatsApp. In a parallel leap, California startup Reflect Orbital is pursuing FCC approval to launch satellites that reflect sunlight on demand during dark hours, aiming to support solar-dependent farms and reduce fossil fuel use—though astronomers warn of dire consequences for ground-based observations.