LignoSat

May 31, 2024

In a world-first, Japanese researchers have built a tiny wooden satellite named LignoSat that will be launched into space in September.

About LignoSat:

LignoSat”, a fusion of “ligno” (the Latin word for wood) and “satellite”,.
It is developed by collaborative research and development by a team comprising members from Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry Co.
Objective: Their objective is to leverage the eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness of wood in space exploration.
It is constructed from magnolia wood, chosen for its durability and adaptability.
Why wood is used?
- Wooden satellites are viewed as more environmentally friendly upon reentering the Earth's atmosphere at the conclusion of their mission. Unlike metal satellites, which pose air pollution risks due to the generation of metal particles during reentry, wooden satellites mitigate these concerns.
It will first be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a SpaceX rocket from the Kennedy Space Center.
Once it reaches the ISS, it will be released from the Japanese experiment module to test its durability and strength.
Researchers will receive data from the satellite to monitor its performance, including signs of strain and its ability to withstand extreme temperature changes.