Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A wooden satellite named LignoSat has been launched into space as part of a study to explore how wood materials could help reduce space debris. The satellite, developed by researchers in Japan, is the first of its kind to enter orbit and aims to demonstrate the potential for renewable materials in space exploration.
LignoSat was created by scientists at Kyoto University in collaboration with Tokyo-based lumber company Sumitomo Forestry. Roughly the size of a hand, LignoSat takes its name from the Latin word for “wood” and will test the viability of wooden structures in the extreme conditions of space.
As the space industry grows, scientists are searching for ways to reduce metal debris left by conventional satellites, which are primarily made from aluminum. Once satellites are no longer used, it will be taken back to earth. In the process they often burn up and leave metallic particles that can pose risks to the atmosphere.
The developers of LignoSat, speaking to The Guardian on Wednesday, highlighted the environmental implications. “These particles can have negative impacts on both the environment and telecommunications,” they said.
Instead of metal, LignoSat uses magnolia wood, which researchers hope will fully disintegrate as it reenters Earth’s atmosphere, avoiding the pollutive byproducts left by traditional satellite materials. According to retired Japanese astronaut and Kyoto University professor Takao Doi, “Metal satellites may be banned in the future,” as alternative materials are explored.
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The satellite, a cube measuring just 10 centimeters, was launched aboard an unmanned SpaceX rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Tuesday, November 5. According to AFP, A spokesperson from Sumitomo Forestry confirmed that the launch was successful. “The satellite, secured in a specialized container prepared by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, safely reached space,” he said.
Currently docked at the International Space Station (ISS), LignoSat is scheduled to be deployed into orbit within the next month, where it will undergo tests for durability and resilience in space. Data from the satellite will be transmitted back to researchers, who will assess signs of strain and evaluate whether the material withstands extreme temperature shifts. Scientists project that wood may be more durable in space than on Earth, where factors like water and oxygen cause degradation.
“While wood in space may sound counterintuitive to some, researchers hope this investigation will reveal that wooden satellites can offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional satellites,” said Meghan Everett, deputy chief scientist of NASA’s ISS program, during a press briefing on Monday.
As wooden satellite LignoSat embarks on its groundbreaking mission, researchers are optimistic that this wooden satellite could pave the way for more sustainable space technology. If successful, LignoSat might not only redefine how satellites are built but also set a new standard in reducing space pollution for future generations.
(Raidi/Agung)
