Reflect Orbital's Space Mirror Plan Raises Concerns Over Astronomy and Eye Safety

·1 views

California-based startup Reflect Orbital is reviving a century-old concept of using orbital mirrors to reflect sunlight onto Earth for power generation and illumination. The company plans to launch a test satellite called Eärendil-1, potentially as a precursor to a fleet of up to 50,000 space mirrors. The idea involves positioning large mirrors in orbit to redirect sunlight toward specific geographic areas. Similar experiments were conducted by Russian scientists in the 1990s under the Znamya project. However, the proposal has sparked concerns about potential harm to astronomical observations and risks to human eyesight.

Read the full story at The Verge

This is an AI-generated summary. ShortSingh links to the original source for the complete article.

Discussion (0)

Steam hardware customers in Europe hit by CEVA Logistics data breach

Valve has notified customers that a data breach at its European shipping partner, CEVA Logistics, may have exposed their personal information. The compromised data potentially includes names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of European Steam hardware buyers. The breach took place between July 29th and August 1st, shortly after Valve opened reservations for its Steam Machine and Steam Controller. CEVA retains delivery-related customer data for up to 90 days after orders are fulfilled, which is why the information was at risk. Valve confirmed that European customer data was 'likely compromised' as a result of the incident.

0 comments Read more at The Verge

TechnologyTechCrunch ·

Discovered Materials Raises $9M to Find Better Materials for Efficient Chips

Discovered Materials has secured $9 million in funding to advance its search for novel materials used in chip manufacturing. The startup is leveraging artificial intelligence to accelerate the discovery process. Its goal is to identify materials that can help build more efficient and cooler-running semiconductor chips. The funding will support ongoing research and development efforts in this emerging field of AI-driven materials science.

0 comments Read more at TechCrunch

TechnologyTechCrunch ·

Google Play Now Accepts Venmo as a Payment Method

Google Play has added Venmo as a new payment option for users on its platform. The move expands the range of ways customers can pay for digital content on the app store. This development comes at a time when consumer spending on apps and games is on the rise. The integration allows Venmo users to conveniently link their accounts for purchases on Google Play.

0 comments Read more at TechCrunch

TechnologyThe Verge ·

Retro-style Classic-TKL Keyboard Now Available Preassembled for the First Time

The Classic-TKL Underscore Edition, a retro-inspired tenkeyless wired keyboard, is now available in a preassembled version for the first time. Previously, the keyboard was sold only as a bare-bones kit requiring self-assembly. The new ready-to-use option comes with quality components already installed, lowering the barrier for buyers who prefer a plug-and-play experience. The keyboard features a classic aesthetic and omits both a number pad and wireless connectivity. It is aimed at users who want a straightforward, retro-styled typing experience without the need for any assembly.

0 comments Read more at The Verge