Unannounced Test by Controversial “Sunlight-as-a-Service” Space Startup Shocks Astronomers

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1. 1h ago

   Controversial Space Startup Tests "Sunlight-as-a-Service" Without Notice

   A US space startup, Reflect Orbital, has conducted an unannounced test of its "sunlight as a service" technology in California, drawing criticism from astronomers and local residents. The company plans to sell sunlight at night using giant space mirrors for $5,000 an hour. The test has sparked concerns about the potential disruption to astronomical observations and the impact on local communities.

   Why it matters

   The startup's technology involves using space mirrors to reflect sunlight onto specific areas of the Earth at night. This has raised concerns among astronomers about the potential disruption to their work and the impact on the night sky. The test has also sparked debate about the regulation of such technologies and who gets a say in their development and deployment.

   What is confirmed

   • The startup plans to sell sunlight at night using giant space mirrors for $5,000 an hour.
   • The test has sparked concerns about the potential disruption to astronomical observations and the impact on local communities.
   • The technology involves using space mirrors to reflect sunlight onto specific areas of the Earth at night.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The company may face regulatory hurdles in deploying its technology.

   What to watch next

   • The company's plans for future tests and deployments
   • The response of regulatory bodies to the technology
   Sources used for this update (11)

   1. mynews13.com — SpaceX to do first orbital flight test for Starship
   2. flipboard.com — Beloved singer’s wife killed after welcoming robbery suspects with lemonade
   3. Futurism — Unannounced Test by Controversial “Sunlight-as-a-Service” Space Startup Shocks Astronomers
   4. The Guardian — Sunlight at night: US startup’s demonstration of lighting Earth from space draws criticism
   5. Sky & Telescope — A Satellite Company Tests “Sunlight As A Service” — Without Astronomers’ Knowledge
   6. Newser — In California's Night Sky, 'Blinding' Daylight
   7. Phys.org — An American startup wants to sell sunlight after dark. Who gets a say?
   8. www.dexerto.com — Company planning to sell “sunlight-after-dark” under fire ...
   9. www.backpacker.com — Space Mirrors Promise Daylight in the Dark, But Rescue Teams ...
   10. www.popularmechanics.com — A Startup Wants to Sell You Sunlight Using Giant Space Mirrors
   11. thenerdstash.com — California Residents Blindsided as Company Plans to Sell ...
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