Scientists at Kyoto University and logging company Sumitomo Forestry have developed the world’s first wooden satellite. Named LignoSat, this tiny cuboid craft is scheduled to be launched into space on a SpaceX rocket in September. Each side of the experimental satellite measures just four inches, and the wooden material is expected to burn up completely as it re-enters the atmosphere. This may help to avoid the creation of metal particles when a retired satellite returns to Earth, which could have a negative impact on the environment and telecommunications.
The importance of non-metallic satellites was emphasized by Takao Doi, an astronaut and special professor at Kyoto University, at a press conference. Once on the International Space Station (ISS), LignoSat will be released from the Japanese ISS experiment module to test its strength and durability. Data will be sent from the satellite to researchers to check for signs of strain and its ability to withstand temperature changes.
In addition to LignoSat, a sophisticated satellite developed in collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA) and JAXA was launched from California in July 2021. The EarthCARE satellite will orbit nearly 250 miles above Earth for three years on a mission to investigate the role clouds could play in combating climate change. The advancement of satellite technology continues to push the boundaries of scientific exploration and innovation.
