Japanese Scientist To Launch World's First Wooden Satellite To Combat Space Pollution

Japan’s groundbreaking innovations continue to astound the global community, with a recent endeavour poised to revolutionise spaceflight. In a collaborative effort between NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), preparations are underway to launch the world’s first wooden satellite into orbit, aiming to make space exploration more environmentally sustainable.

As per a report by The Guardian, the satellite, developed by scientists from Kyoto University in partnership with logging company Sumitomo Forestry, seeks to explore the feasibility of utilising biodegradable materials such as wood in space technology. This initiative aims to assess the viability of eco-friendly alternatives for future satellite construction.

Dubbed LignoSat, the satellite, roughly the size of a coffee mug, is crafted from magnolia wood and is scheduled for launch into Earth’s orbit by summer 2024. Wood, known for its resistance to burning and decay, presents an intriguing option for satellite construction, as it disintegrates into harmless ash upon reentry into Earth’s atmosphere.

The decision to explore wooden satellite construction stemmed from concerns over the environmental impact of traditional satellite materials. Japanese astronaut and aerospace engineer Takao Doi highlighted the issue, noting that conventional satellites generate aluminium particles upon reentry, which can linger in Earth’s upper atmosphere for years, potentially posing environmental hazards. In contrast, wooden satellites would combust completely, leaving no debris.

Extensive research was conducted to identify the most suitable wood for satellite construction, with magnolia wood emerging as the top contender due to its exceptional durability and resistance to spaceflight conditions. Following rigorous testing, including exposure to the harsh environment of the International Space Station (ISS), magnolia wood proved resilient and showed no signs of damage.

The experiment, conducted a year before the satellite’s scheduled launch, confirmed wood’s suitability for space applications. Scientists attribute wood’s resilience to its inherent properties, including its inability to burn without oxygen and its resistance to decay.

Dr. Takumi Kajiwara, head of the research team, emphasised the significance of their findings, highlighting magnolia wood’s superiority for satellite construction. With the imminent launch of LignoSat, the scientific community eagerly anticipates the outcomes of this pioneering endeavour, which could pave the way for greener space exploration practices in the future.