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Environmental Groups Petition FCC to Reverse Sunlight Beam Satellite Approval

8/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

On August 6, 2026, groups DarkSky International, Environment America and American Bird Conservancy petitioned the FCC to reverse approval of Reflect Orbital’s Eärendil-1 test satellite.
The FCC authorized a satellite that can project a 3-mile-wide beam of sunlight from 400 miles altitude.
Astronomers warned the beam would be four times brighter than the full Moon while groups say it may disturb wildlife, increase light pollution and create eye-safety hazards.

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Story summary

On August 6, 2026, groups DarkSky International, Environment America and American Bird Conservancy petitioned the FCC to reverse approval of Reflect Orbital’s Eärendil-1 test satellite.
The FCC authorized a satellite that can project a 3-mile-wide beam of sunlight from 400 miles altitude.
Astronomers warned the beam would be four times brighter than the full Moon while groups say it may disturb wildlife, increase light pollution and create eye-safety hazards.