Contender for the most non-viable startup: Reflect Orbital
The Sunlight Company
Reflect Orbital makes clean, abundant energy available on demand.
We exist because reliable access to affordable energy is the foundation of human progress, economic growth, and a healthier planet.
Precise
5 km and up.
Highly Localized
Directed to the approved end user.
Configurable
Adjust intensity.
Dimmable
Noon light to moon light.
On Demand
Order instantly in approved locations.
Turn it off instantly when you are done.Easy to use
From our app or website.
Uniform
Full spectrum, even coverage.
Dynamic
Relocate the spot as needed.
No Ground Infrastructure
Easy set-up and onboarding.
What's possible with a spot of sunlight?
The Big Picture
The sun powers virtually everything on earth. Every calorie of food, every drop of fuel, nearly every electron moving through the grid traces back to sunlight.
Humanity consumes less than one trillionth of the sun's output, yet solar represents just 7% of global electricity production. We think humanity can and should use more - even just a fraction more - of the most powerful resource in the solar system.
Reflect Orbital is creating a new category of space-enabled infrastructure to unlock the sun’s full potential here on Earth.
Our constellation and markets will continuously expand
Lighting Service
0.1 lux brightness for 5 minutes comparable to full moon.
2 lux for 2.5 hours comparable to street lighting.
Up to 100 lux for 2 hours comparable to indoor work areas.
2 lux 24/7 comparable to streetlighting.
Up to 5,000 lux for minutes comparable to daylight.
Up to 100 lux for 2 hours comparable to indoor work areas.
2 lux 24/7 comparable to street lighting.
Up to 36,000 lux for hours comparable to daylight.
Up to 100 lux 24/7 comparable to indoor work areas
Energy Service
+1% capacity factor with 50 w/m2 for 20 minutes*.
+20% capacity factor for 300 w/m2 for 3 hours.
*Assuming a typically overbuilt solar farm, production increase for Southern CA is estimated to be 0.75% and Germany is expected to be 1.4% .
Our constellation and markets will grow over time
Lighting Service
0.1 lux brightness for 5 minutes comparable to full moon.
Lighting Service
2 lux for 2.5 hours comparable to street lighting,
Lighting Service
Up to 100 lux for 2 hours comparable to indoor work areas.
2 lux 24/7 comparable to streetlighting.
Lighting Service
Up to 5,000 lux for minutes comparable to daylight.
Up to 100 lux for 2 hours comparable to indoor work areas.
2 lux 24/7 comparable to street lighting.
Energy Service
+1% capacity factor with 50 w/m2 for 20 minutes*
*Assuming a typically overbuilt solar farm, production increase for Southern CA is estimated to be 0.75% and Germany is expected to be 1.4%
Lighting Service
Up to 36,000 lux for hours comparable to daylight.
Up to 100 lux 24/7 comparable to indoor work areas.
Energy Service
+20% capacity factor for 300 w/m2 for 3 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is reflected sunlight?
Reflected sunlight is natural sunlight redirected from space with mirrors. It is the same sunlight we see every day, simply redirected at a time when it is not typically accessible.
How is this different from artificial lighting?
Artificial light relies on electricity, fuel, and physical infrastructure like poles and wires. Reflected sunlight requires none of this. It extends access to sunlight in precise areas for finite periods of time without adding new ground infrastructure.
What areas can it illuminate?
Our satellites can illuminate a specific area anywhere on Earth. The light will not spill out of the defined service area
Can the light be adjusted?
Yes, the light is adjustable. It can effectively be “turned on and off” by rotating the satellite and the timing can be scheduled so that it operates only during requested hours. In addition, the brightness is adjustable (from full moon to full noon) when multiple satellites are in orbit.
Who benefits from this technology?
Anyone needing clean, controllable, safe light can benefit. Applications range from extending solar generation hours without requiring any new land or ground infrastructure to illuminating precise areas for operations in remote environments. Check out our products to learn more.
Is it safe?
We design for safety in three ways: 1) the light is contained within the spot, 2) the light can be turned off quickly and at any time so that none of it reaches the Earth, and 3) we can intentionally avoid sensitive areas like research observatories or protected habitats. The light is not bright enough to start fires or harm eyes, even when viewed through a telescope, and cannot be concentrated past maximum natural sunlight irradiance.
Can it be avoided?
Yes, we will only provide redirected light when it is specifically requested and approved by the appropriate local authorities. In addition, we will share positions in advance so that scientists and other stakeholders can plan around the service.
What will it look like on the ground?
The spot is brightest on the ground with minimal sky glow in the air. From within the spot, it will look and feel like the given brightness level (bright moon to high noon) with a star-like spot passing overhead.
How can I request this service?