#Technology Policy

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Space•Jul 15, 2026

FCC Clears a Giant Space Mirror to Beam Sunlight at Night - Astronomers Warn of the Risks

The U.S. FCC has authorized Reflect Orbital to deploy and operate Eärendil-1, an experimental satellite carrying an 18-by-18-metre steerable reflector. The single-satellite test could demonstrate tightly targeted sunlight from orbit, but astronomers argue that its brightness, safety implications and regulatory precedent demand far closer scrutiny.

Technology Policy•Jul 15, 2026

New York Becomes First U.S. State to Pause Hyperscale Data Centers

New York has paused state environmental permits for new hyperscale data centers for up to one year while regulators study their effects on electricity, water, air, noise and communities. The first statewide U.S. moratorium targets facilities capable of consuming at least 50 megawatts, with important exemptions and limits.