Japan Launches World's First Wooden Satellite into Space

Japan has successfully launched the world's first wooden satellite into space, marking a significant milestone in space technology. Made from sustainable wood materials, the satellite aims to explore eco-friendly solutions to reduce space debris. This innovative project could pave the way for future space missions that prioritize environmental sustainability, offering a new approach to space exploration while addressing growing concerns about space pollution.

Scientists at Kyoto University anticipate that the wooden material will disintegrate as the satellite re-enters the atmosphere, offering a potential method to prevent the release of metal particles when defunct satellites re-enter Earth's atmosphere.

The world's first wooden satellite was launched aboard a SpaceX rocket as part of a resupply mission to the International Space Station, according to its Japanese developers on Tuesday.

Kyoto University researchers predict that the satellite’s wooden composition will burn up upon re-entry, providing a solution to avoid releasing harmful metal particles when retired satellites return to Earth.

The experimental satellite, named LignoSat, has a box-like shape with sides measuring only 10 centimeters (4 inches).

It was launched aboard an unmanned rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, as stated by Kyoto University’s Human Spaceology Center.

The satellite, housed in a specialized container prepared by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, "successfully flew into space," the center reported in a post on X.

A spokesperson from Sumitomo Forestry, one of LignoSat's developers, confirmed that the launch was "successful."

It will soon arrive at the International Space Station (ISS) and will be deployed into outer space about a month later to test its strength and durability.

The satellite will transmit data to researchers, who will monitor for any signs of stress and assess its ability to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations.

"Satellites made from materials other than metal should eventually become the norm," said Takao Doi, astronaut and special professor at Kyoto University, during a press conference earlier this year.

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Source: Indiatoday‍