LignoSat : Launched Into Space
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.
- 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.
- 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 renewable material 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.
- 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.
