Reflect Orbital, a space startup, recently conducted an illumination test near Lone Pine, California, simulating the effect of its proposed orbital mirrors designed to provide and sell sunlight after dark. The test, held on October 10, involved members of the China Lake Mountain Rescue Group (CLMRG) in a practical exercise, practicing search and training with night time equipment.
The simulation took place between 7 p.m. and midnight, utilizing spotlights to replicate the controlled lighting that Reflect Orbital’s satellites could offer. The company's ambitious plan involves building and operating orbital mirrors that would enable controlled lighting in various locations without the need for ground infrastructure. According to Reflect Orbital, this novel lighting approach is intended to support a diverse range of customers and operations. Among the potential applications, the company cites remote search-and-rescue operations, a function directly relevant to the training conducted by the CLMRG, and even solar farms aiming to generate clean power.
The China Lake Mountain Rescue Group, an all-volunteer, 501(c) non-profit organization, plays a vital role in local public safety. Operating under the auspices of the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, CLMRG provides essential search and rescue (SAR) services on an on-call basis, entirely at no cost to those in need. Their participation in Reflect Orbital’s test underscored the potential practical applications of such illumination for emergency response scenarios in challenging low-light conditions.
In a related development, Reflect Orbital announced this month a significant step forward in its deployment strategy, confirming the purchase of two launches from Skyroot Aerospace. These dedicated launches are intended to deploy future spacecraft as part of Reflect Orbital’s growing constellation. The company stated that these agreements "provide assured schedule and capacity" for their operations. Reflect Orbital further explained that these new launches would complement other planned launches from sites within the United States, indicating a multi-faceted approach to getting their orbital mirrors into space.
Skyroot Aerospace, an entity within India’s private space sector, developed the Vikram-1 launcher, which made its inaugural flight last July from India’s Sriharikota launch site. The partnership with Skyroot Aerospace highlights Reflect Orbital's global strategy for space deployment as it works to establish its infrastructure for providing orbital illumination services. The company continues to make progress on its goal of placing giant mirrors in Earth orbit to produce and sell sunlight, aiming to offer an innovative solution for controlled lighting needs.
