Washington/Internet/Hyderabad, Oct 17 (Maxim News): Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace has signed a two-launch agreement with US startup Reflect Orbital to deploy satellites designed to reflect sunlight onto Earth at night.
The California-based company plans to use satellites equipped with large mirrors to direct sunlight towards selected locations after sunset. The proposed technology could support disaster rescue operations and extend sunlight availability for solar farms.
Reflect Orbital announced the agreement on October 14. The two launches will use Skyroot’s Vikram rocket family, although the companies have not disclosed launch dates or financial details.
The first mission will use the Vikram-1 rocket. The second is planned for Vikram-1U, a launch vehicle currently under development.
Space Mirrors Could Provide Sunlight After Dark
Reflect Orbital aims to redirect sunlight from orbit towards specific areas on Earth. The company says its system could provide adjustable illumination across an area approximately five kilometres wide. However, the technology still needs to demonstrate its effectiveness in real-world operations.
The proposed applications include illuminating disaster-hit areas for search-and-rescue teams. It could also help workers operate in remote industrial locations and provide additional light around critical infrastructure.
Another intended use is extending the period during which solar farms receive sunlight. The company hopes reflected sunlight could help increase electricity generation, although the practical benefits remain to be demonstrated.
Skyroot co-founder and CEO Pawan Kumar Chandana welcomed the partnership. He said the company looked forward to helping Reflect Orbital pursue its plan to provide sunlight when needed through Skyroot rockets.
The project has also raised concerns about light pollution and its potential effects on astronomy, wildlife and people’s natural sleep cycles. Reflect Orbital has said it will continue engaging with astronomers, local communities and regulators as it develops the technology.
The agreement marks another international commercial opportunity for Skyroot. However, the proposed sunlight service is not yet operational, and the launch schedule remains unannounced.
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