A group of Japanese researchers have completed the development of the world’s first wooden satellite, called LignoSat, which will be delivered next week for launch. Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry have perfected this prototype cuboid spacecraft, which is scheduled to be sent into space on a SpaceX rocket in September.
LignoSat, the first wooden satellite is ready
The satellite’s design has as its main objective: self-destruction, as its wooden material can burn completely upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. Among its characteristics, it has 10 centimeters on each side, and its design avoids the creation of metallic particles, which have a potential negative impact on the environment and telecommunications.
During a press conference, Takao Doi, an astronaut and special professor at Kyoto University, stated that“non-metallic satellites should become commonplace.” The LignoSat, made of magnolia wood will be delivered to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) next week. It will then be transported into space from Kennedy Space Center on a SpaceX rocket, bound for the International Space Station(ISS).
Once on the ISS, the wooden satellite will perform its liftoff from the Japanese experimental module for durability, performance and endurance evaluations during the trip. “The data collected by the satellite will be sent to researchers, who will analyze signs of stress and its ability to withstand large temperature changes.“, explained a Sumitomo Forestry spokeswoman.
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Source: CBS News
Photo: MBS News
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