- Researchers hope to be able to take the satellite into space in December to do a first test of the use of wood in lunar and Mars exploration work | Photo: JAXA
LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, was launched on Tuesday, November 5, on a Space X Falcon IX spacecraft, from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida (United States), bound for the International Space Stationalong with other supplies. The object was built by Japanese researchers from Kyoto University (Japan) and the Sumitomo Forestry company.
According to a spokesperson for the Japanese company, once it arrives at the Station, experts hope to be able to take it into space a month later (December), although there is still no confirmed date, as part of a first test of the use of wood. in lunar and Mars exploration.
The satellite was completed in May 2024. It is the result of at least four years of research by Kyoto University and the Sumitomo Forestry company with the aim of creating a satellite that is more environmentally friendly and at a lower cost. lower.
When construction was completed, the university said in a statement that this was an “extremely valuable” step for the space and wood industry. He added that it will help open the possibilities of using this material.
Satellite details
The small CubeSat satellite successfully passed rigorous safety inspections by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), in which It marks the first time that a wooden satellite has been approved for use in space.
It is a 10-centimeter cube made of magnolia wood panels 4 to 5.5 millimeters thick, with a frame partially constructed of aluminum for whose construction the traditional Japanese carpentry method has been used, based on the assembly of pieces, without using screws or adhesive.
It also has solar panels placed on some sides and weighs approximately 1 kilogram.
Its name, LignoSat, comes from the combination of the words ligno, a Latin prefix meaning wood, and satellite.
Ecological impact
According to the Japanese media The Japan Times, Metal satellites can break into pieces upon re-entering Earth, thereby releasing harmful aluminum particles into the atmosphere.
In May 2024, the creators explained in a statement that it is estimated that the satellite will burn up completely upon re-entering the atmosphere, which could reduce the generation of metal waste on its return to Earth.
Likewise, they emphasized that wood has the advantage of not blocking electromagnetic elements, which allows the antennas to be placed inside the body of the satellite instead of outside.
With information from EFE
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#launched #wooden #satellite #International #Space #Station
**Interview with Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, Lead Researcher on the LignoSat Project**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Tanaka. The launch of LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, is quite an exciting development. Can you tell us how this project came to be?
**Dr. Tanaka:** Thank you for having me. The LignoSat project is the culmination of over four years of research collaboration between Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry. We wanted to explore the potential of using wood in space technology, not only for its lighter weight but also for its environmental benefits compared to traditional metal materials.
**Interviewer:** That’s fascinating! What kind of tests will LignoSat undergo during its six-month mission?
**Dr. Tanaka:** Once it arrives at the International Space Station, we plan to send LignoSat into orbit around December. The satellite will be monitored to assess how wood holds up under the extreme conditions of space. We’re particularly interested in studying its durability and any changes it undergoes while exposed to radiation and temperature fluctuations.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the potential for using wood in lunar and Mars exploration. How do you envision this material being used in the future?
**Dr. Tanaka:** Yes, wood could be a game changer for construction materials in future lunar bases or Martian habitats, providing a renewable option. Additionally, wooden components can reduce harmful debris upon re-entry, which is an important consideration for minimizing pollution in our atmosphere.
**Interviewer:** It’s intriguing to think about sustainable practices extending into space. Can you explain the advantages of using traditional Japanese carpentry methods in the satellite’s design?
**Dr. Tanaka:** Using traditional carpentry techniques allowed us to construct LignoSat without screws or adhesives, which not only enhances the structural integrity but also simplifies the disassembly process. This is particularly crucial when considering the eco-friendly disposal of satellites once they complete their missions.
**Interviewer:** What do you hope to achieve through this groundbreaking project?
**Dr. Tanaka:** We hope LignoSat shines a light on the possibilities of using sustainable materials in outer space and encourages future innovations. Our ultimate goal is to make space exploration more environmentally friendly while paving the path for new research in both the space and wood industries.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Tanaka, for sharing your insights. We’re looking forward to seeing the results from LignoSat’s mission!
**Dr. Tanaka:** Thank you for having me. We appreciate the support and interest in our project!
