Kyoto University to Launch World's First Wooden Satellite
Kyoto University is set to launch the first wooden satellite, LignoSat, to explore wood’s viability in space, aiming to reduce space debris and promote sustainable space exploration.
The Innovation Behind LignoSat
The LignoSat satellite, a 10-centimeter cube, is crafted from magnolia wood and represents a groundbreaking step in space technology. This project, a collaboration between Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry, aims to explore the feasibility of using wood as a primary material for satellites. The wood used in LignoSat is specifically chosen for its durability and ability to withstand the harsh conditions of space, including extreme temperatures and radiation[1][2].
Environmental Benefits
One of the primary benefits of using wood in satellite construction is its environmental friendliness. Traditional satellites made from metal, particularly aluminum, create metal particles that can harm the environment and interfere with telecommunications when they burn up upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. In contrast, a wooden satellite like LignoSat will completely burn up without leaving harmful residues, thus reducing space debris and environmental impact[2][3].
Development and Testing
The development of LignoSat began in April 2020, involving extensive research and collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry to identify the most suitable wood. The satellite’s wooden panels are between 4 to 5.5 millimeters thick, and the frame incorporates a traditional Japanese technique that does not use screws or adhesives[4]. The durability of magnolia wood was tested in space conditions, and it proved to be the most suitable material among other tested woods like cherry and birch[5].
Launch and Mission Details
LignoSat is scheduled to be handed over to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on June 4, 2024. It will be launched aboard a SpaceX rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida in September. Once it reaches the International Space Station (ISS), it will be deployed from the Japanese Experiment Module, Kibo, approximately one month later. The satellite will orbit Earth for five to six months, during which it will send data back to researchers to assess its performance under space conditions[5][6].
Future Prospects
If LignoSat proves successful, it could pave the way for more wooden satellites and other space structures. Takao Doi, a former astronaut and current professor at Kyoto University, envisions expanding the use of wood for constructing habitats on the moon and Mars. The success of LignoSat could significantly influence the future of sustainable space exploration and reduce the environmental impact of space missions[1][7].