Reflect Orbital, a cutting-edge start-up from California, is set to transform the energy sector with a revolutionary approach to global energy consumption.
The company is developing technology that will enable the provision of sunlight even after dark, aiming to redefine the use of solar energy.
This ambitious project seeks to overcome a major limitation of current solar power systems and could significantly influence the future of energy production.
Reflect Orbital is addressing the challenge of generating power after sunset with a system of satellites designed to reflect sunlight onto solar farms during nighttime hours, effectively offering “sunlight on demand.” CEO Ben Nowack introduced this concept at the International Conference on Energy from Space in London this April.
The start-up plans to launch 57 small satellites, each with ultra-reflective mylar mirrors, to direct sunlight back to Earth and target solar farms during peak demand periods. This technology could extend solar power availability by an additional 30 minutes, providing a crucial boost during high energy consumption times.
Reflect Orbital has already tested its idea using a large mylar mirror attached to a hot air balloon, which demonstrated substantial energy output.
The company aims to deploy its orbital mirror in 2025 and has received over 30,000 applications for their “sunlight on demand” service. With falling space flight costs, Reflect Orbital is optimistic about the feasibility and profitability of its venture, which could revolutionise the way solar energy is harnessed and utilised around the clock.