Reflect Orbital raises $73.5M for sunlight-beaming satellites

Reflect Orbital has raised $73.5 million in new funding, bringing its total funding past $100 million as it prepares for an inaugural demonstration mission in the second quarter of 2027. The Hawthorne-based startup is developing low Earth orbit satellites featuring large, deployable mirrors designed to redirect sunlight to Earth after dark. The company says the system could extend solar farm output and aid emergency responders, though the project has faced opposition from the astronomical community. Open article →