San Francisco (Agencies): Reflect Orbital, an innovative aerospace startup, has unveiled a groundbreaking app that allows users to order sunlight reflected from satellites.
This service, dubbed “Sunlight-as-a-Service,” aims to extend daylight hours for various applications, from solar farms to personal use.
The company, led by former SpaceX executive Ben Nowack, plans to deploy a constellation of satellites equipped with large, highly reflective Mylar sheets.
These satellites will be positioned in a sun-synchronous orbit, enabling them to direct sunlight to specific locations on Earth, even after sunset.
Reflect Orbital’s app will allow users to request sunlight for a set duration, providing an additional 30 minutes of daylight anywhere in the world.
This service is expected to significantly boost renewable energy production by keeping solar farms operational during nighttime hours.
Beyond its practical applications for solar energy, the app also offers potential for personal and commercial lighting needs. Users could light up events, streets, or even their backyards with natural sunlight, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and contributing to energy conservation.
The technology involves deploying 57 satellites into orbit, each equipped with 33’ x 33’ Mylar sheets to maximize reflectivity. This innovative approach promises to revolutionize how we think about and utilize solar energy, while also sparking discussions on light pollution and the economic feasibility of such a service.
Reflect Orbital’s pilot projects are currently underway, with plans to launch two initial satellites as a proof of concept. The excitement around this project highlights its potential to transform both the energy sector and everyday life.