The world's first wooden satellite LignoSat built by Japanese researchers was launched into space in an early test of using timber in lunar and Mars exploration.
About LignoSat:
LignoSat”, a fusion of “ligno” (the Latin word for wood) and “satellite”.
It is developed through 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 tasked to demonstrate the cosmic potential of renewablematerial as humans explore living in space.
It is constructed from magnolia wood, chosen for its durability and adaptability.
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.
Why is wood used?
Wooden satellites are viewed as more environmentally friendly upon reentering the Earth's atmosphere after their mission. Unlike metal satellites, which pose air pollution risks due to the generation of metal particles during reentry, wooden satellites mitigate these concerns.
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