FCC Approves Sunlight Reflection Satellite

On 9th July 2026, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorised Reflect Orbital to launch Eärendil-1, a test satellite designed to reflect sunlight onto selected locations on Earth during nighttime.

Key Highlights

  • The FCC granted Reflect Orbital a two-year licence to operate the test satellite.
  • Eärendil-1 will carry a motorised thin-film mirror to reflect sunlight towards Earth.
  • The satellite will operate in a non-geostationary orbit at an altitude of about 625 km.
  • It will have an orbital inclination of 88°.

Purpose of the Mission

  • Reflect sunlight to selected locations during night-time.
  • Extend operational hours for solar energy systems.
  • Provide temporary illumination during emergency and humanitarian ....
Do You Want to Read More?
Subscribe Now

To get access to detailed content

Already a Member? Login here


Take Annual Subscription and get the following Advantage
The annual members of the Civil Services Chronicle can read the monthly content of the magazine as well as the Chronicle magazine archives.
Readers can study all the material before the last six months of the Civil Services Chronicle monthly issue in the form of Chronicle magazine archives.

Related Content