Japan is set to launch the world’s first wooden satellite in September. Named LignoSat, it is a joint project between researchers at Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry. The small cube-shaped satellite measures 4 inches on each side and weighs just over 2 pounds. Unlike traditional satellites, LignoSat was built using a traditional Japanese technique that doesn’t require screws or glue and features external solar panels.
The components of the satellite were crafted from magnolia wood sourced from a Sumitomo Forestry forest. Magnolia wood was chosen for its strength and workability after undergoing space exposure tests. Once launched, LignoSat will be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) where it will be deployed into orbit for further study. Researchers will monitor how the wood holds up in space, collecting data on its expansion, contraction, degradation, internal temperature, and electronic equipment performance.
If LignoSat performs well, it could open up new possibilities for reducing the environmental impact of satellite reentries. Traditional satellites can release harmful metal particles into Earth’s atmosphere when they burn up upon reentry. The successful development of LignoSat could pave the way for sustainable satellite construction and human habitat building using wood in space, such as on the moon or Mars.
The development of LignoSat began in April 2020, and ground tests have already been conducted to ensure the satellite’s functionality and safety. The upcoming launch of the wooden satellite marks an innovative step towards exploring sustainable and eco-friendly solutions in space technology.
The experimental satellite named LignoSat was developed by researchers at Kyoto University in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry as part of their ongoing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of space exploration. The cube-shaped wooden satellite measures 4 inches on each side and weighs just over 2 pounds.
Unlike traditional satellites that are typically made from aluminum or other metals, LignoSat was constructed using a traditional Japanese technique that doesn’t require screws or glue.
Researchers selected magnolia wood sourced from a Sumitomo Forestry forest because of its strength and workability after undergoing space exposure tests.
When launched next month, LignoSat will be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) where it will be deployed into orbit for further study.
During its time in space, researchers will collect data on how well the wood holds up under various conditions such as expansion, contraction
