Washington Post Technology

We’re About to Turn Night Into Day. Is that a Good Idea?

The FCC is reviewing proposals to launch orbital mirrors that would reflect sunlight onto cities, effectively turning night into day, while SpaceX is eyeing a constellation of up to a million satellites to serve as floating data centers. Proponents claim the mirrors could slash street‑lighting costs and the satellite “data farms” would bring edge computing closer to users, reducing latency. Critics warn of unprecedented light pollution, orbital debris, and regulatory hurdles. The debate underscores how commercial space ambitions are intersecting with urban sustainability and security policy.