What caused the famously brilliant, short-lived flashes associated with older Iridium communication satellites?
Answer
Their large, flat antenna panels perfectly angled sunlight toward the observer
Specific older satellite constellations utilized large, flat panels that, when oriented correctly relative to the sun and the ground observer, focused a concentrated beam of reflected sunlight downward.
#Videos
What's up with the lights in the night sky? - YouTube
Related Questions
What is a space rock termed after it enters Earth's atmosphere and begins to burn due to friction?What specific characteristic distinguishes a fireball or bolide from a regular, faint shooting star?What observation strongly suggests the light seen was caused by a piece of ablating extraterrestrial material?Why do orbiting satellites become visible as moving lights after sunset or before sunrise?What caused the famously brilliant, short-lived flashes associated with older Iridium communication satellites?What is the term for the widespread brightening of the night sky caused by artificial light scattering off atmospheric components?How does Skyglow fundamentally differ from sightings involving satellites or meteors?If a moving light exhibits blinking colored lights, changes direction abruptly, or is accompanied by engine noise, what is the most likely identification?What size are most space rocks that burn up harmlessly high above the ground, commonly perceived as shooting stars?According to the observational guide, what source is indicated by a light that moves with constant velocity across the sky over several minutes?Which annual meteor shower is mentioned as having its peak visibility near the middle of December?