Japan launches first wooden satellite, LignoSat

Japanese scientists are pioneering space exploration with LignoSat, the world's first wooden satellite, developed by Kyoto University in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry. The innovative spacecraft, crafted from magnolia wood (Japanese honoki), is scheduled to launch aboard a SpaceX rocket to the International Space Station next week.

The tiny cube satellite, measuring 4 inches on each side and weighing just over 2 pounds, was constructed using traditional Japanese techniques without screws or glue. Former astronaut Takao Doi, part of the development team, emphasizes the project's potential for creating sustainable space exploration solutions.

According to forest science professor Koji Murata, extensive testing revealed wood's surprising resilience in space conditions. The material was chosen for its stability and resistance to shattering, properties that have historically made it valuable in traditional Japanese crafts. The absence of oxygen and living organisms in space prevents common wood degradation issues like rotting or burning.

The satellite's key advantage lies in its environmental impact: unlike conventional metal satellites that release polluting particles upon re-entry, LignoSat will burn up harmlessly in Earth's atmosphere. Prior to the launch, wood samples underwent rigorous testing both in simulated space conditions and on the ISS, where they showed remarkable durability during a year-long exposure trial.

This groundbreaking project could mark the beginning of a new era in space exploration. Doi envisions broader applications, including the possibility of using wood for construction on the Moon and Mars, potentially revolutionizing future space colonization efforts.

LignoSat will orbit for six months after its release from the ISS, providing valuable data on wood's performance in the extreme space environment.