Some astronomy experts and enthusiasts in New Brunswick are among those opposing a U.S.-based company’s plan to use space mirrors for providing artificial sunlight as a paid service. The company, Reflect Orbital, has labeled its initiative “sunlight on demand” with applications in agriculture, solar power infrastructure, search and rescue operations, and construction projects. However, critics like Mount Allison University astronomy professor Catherine Lovekin argue that the project could significantly impact ground-based astronomy and stargazing due to potential light pollution from the satellites.
Reflect Orbital, established in 2021, received approval from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission in July for a single mirrored satellite for testing purposes. The company aims to deploy 50,000 satellites by 2035 to reflect sunlight back to Earth, potentially affecting nighttime sky visibility. Lovekin highlights concerns about the project’s implications on nocturnal ecosystems, wildlife, and circadian rhythms.
Stéphane Picard, owner of Cliff Valley Astronomy, echoes these concerns, emphasizing the importance of preserving dark-sky sites in New Brunswick for astro-tourism and environmental balance. Picard notes the province’s efforts to designate additional dark-sky locations to enhance stargazing opportunities and attract tourists seeking natural nightscapes.
Chris Curwin, founder of Astronomy by the Bay, warns that increasing light pollution could hinder future generations’ ability to appreciate celestial events like meteor showers and eclipses. He emphasizes the rarity of dark-sky preserves and the challenges posed by urbanization on stargazing experiences.
Reflect Orbital declined an interview but stated its commitment to providing clean energy while minimizing light pollution. The company assures that the artificial light would be regulated, targeted at specific users, and include exclusion zones to protect astronomical observation sites. Despite these assurances, concerns have been raised by astronomy professionals globally, underscoring the need for regulatory frameworks to address the potential impact of such projects on space and Earth observations.