A US company plans to launch space mirrors that could make nights as bright as day, potentially ruining stargazing for millions. Reflect Orbital's satellites, measuring up to 54 by 54 meters, will beam sunlight to Earth on demand, creating light as bright as 10,000 full moons within a five-kilometer radius.

Astronomers fear this could spell doom for dark skies and astronomical observations. ‘Deploying these mirrors would be seriously damaging,’ warns Miroslav Kocifaj. Yet Reflect Orbital argues their safeguards will mitigate scattering effects.

The company hopes to illuminate Earth 24/7, but critics argue there are no global regulations in place to oversee such a venture. Meanwhile, the FCC’s authority is limited to radio frequency authorization for communication with spacecraft.

Legal and environmental concerns aside, Reflect Orbital believes their technology could benefit solar energy production and emergency operations. But for those who cherish the night sky, this might just be one too many satellites in orbit.