How will Space Mirrors work?

A US space technology company Reflect Orbital, has introduced an unusual plan to bring sunlight to selected areas on Earth even after sunset.

The company wants to place large mirrors in space that will reflect sunlight towards specific locations on the ground.

The idea has attracted attention from scientists, but it has also raised concerns among astronomers and environmental experts.

According to research published in the scientific journal The Astrophysical Journal Letters, the California based company plans to send large mirrors into space to reflect sunlight towards selected areas of Earth during the night.

To move forward with the project Reflect Orbital has signed an agreement with rocket company Skyroot Aerospace for two rocket launches.

The company believes this technology could help solar power projects produce electricity for longer periods. It may also be useful during natural disasters when emergency teams need lighting in affected areas.

How will Space Mirrors Work?

Under the plan, mirrors measuring around 18 by 18 metres will be placed in low Earth orbit. Their positions will be adjusted to reflect sunlight towards selected locations on Earth.

In the first test the company aims to light up an area about five kilometres wide.  However keeping the light focused on one location will require the mirrors to constantly change their positions.

The first test is expected to take place in the second quarter of 2027. A satellite named EARENDIL-1 will be used for the experiment.

A Network of 50,000 Satellites by 2035

Reflect Orbital has much bigger plans than testing just a few mirrors.  The company aims to build a network of 50,000 satellites in space by 2035.

According to the company the light reflected by the first mirrors will be similar in brightness to moonlight.  As more satellites are added the brightness and duration of the light could increase.

The company also plans to offer this service through a mobile app.  Users will be able to select a location and request sunlight for that area. This would allow sunlight to be directed to places where it is needed.

Scientists raise environmental concerns

Despite its possible benefits the project has raised questions about its effects on the environment and  the night sky.

A study published in August 2025 examined how reflected sunlight from space could spread after entering Earth’s atmosphere. Researchers found that gas molecules and dust particles in the atmosphere could scatter the light in different directions.

Light reaching the ground could also reflect back into the atmosphere and spread further. This means the light may not remain limited to the location selected by the company.

Nearby areas could also become brighter.

According to computer models presented in the study, even when mirrors are around 14 kilometres away from the target location the light reaching the ground could be brighter than a full moon.

However these findings are based on scientific calculations and computer models. Real world experiments will be needed to understand the actual effects.

Astronomers warn about the night sky

Reflect Orbital received approval for its project from a US regulatory agency in July. However, astronomers and environmental groups have opposed the plan and called on the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to withdraw its approval.

They warn that thousands of reflective satellites could affect the natural darkness of the night sky. This could make it harder for astronomers to observe stars, planets and other objects in space.

What happens next?

The project is now moving towards its testing stage. Its success will depend on whether the company can keep the mirrors in the correct positions and control how the reflected light spreads across Earth.

Although the technology could offer new opportunities for solar energy and emergency lighting, its possible effects on wildlife the environment and astronomical research remain important concerns.

Further testing will help scientists understand whether bringing sunlight to Earth at night can become a useful technology without seriously affecting the natural night environment.