Giant Mirrors in Space Could Bring Sunlight After Dark, One Startup Says—and Astronomers Are Concerned

Smithsonian MagazineWednesday, December 3, 2025 at 3:00:00 PM
NegativeScience
Giant Mirrors in Space Could Bring Sunlight After Dark, One Startup Says—and Astronomers Are Concerned
  • A startup has proposed deploying giant mirrors in space to harness solar energy at night, a concept that has sparked significant concern among astronomers and critics who argue it could obstruct celestial observations and pose health risks to humans and wildlife.
  • This initiative aims to provide 'sunlight on demand,' which could revolutionize energy access, particularly in regions lacking reliable electricity. However, the potential negative impacts on astronomical research and the environment have raised alarms within the scientific community.
  • The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial activities in space, which raises questions about the balance between technological advancement and the preservation of the night sky. Astronomers have previously expressed concerns over satellite constellations affecting their research, highlighting a broader debate on the implications of human endeavors in space.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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