Reflectors

Power demand spikes in the early morning and later evening, when solar arrays can't help. But researchers in Scotland say orbital launch costs are getting so cheap that giant space-based reflectors could soon be a viable way to power these timeslots.You could possibly look at this as a different way to do space solar – but instead of putting giant photovoltaic arrays in the sky and trying to beam the power down to Earth, you're just hanging big mirror structures in orbit, and using them to send more solar energy down to…

GPS satellites support Earth measurements by relaying information to other satellites. Laser retroreflector arrays (LRAs) are improving this process, enhancing the accuracy of geodesy – the study of Earth’s shape and changes. LRAs enable precise distance measurements, essential for monitoring global phenomena like sea level rise and tectonic shifts. (Artist’s concept.) Credit: SciTechDaily.comLaser retroreflector arrays (LRAs) are advancing GPS satellite capabilities, crucial for accurate Earth measurements in geodesy.…