In a breakthrough that promises to revolutionize space technology, the US space agency NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are set to launch the world’s first wooden satellite into space orbit by 2024. The innovative project, known as the Lignosat mission, aims to solve the growing problem of space wastage by using a renewable and biodegradable material.
What is Lignosat Satellite?
The Lignosat satellite is named after the Latin word for wood. It will be a small, cube-shaped structure with a diameter of about 10 centimeters and a weight of about 330 grams. It will be made primarily from treated Japanese magnolia wood. It is a lightweight and durable material selected for its ability to withstand the extreme conditions of space.
The satellite will carry a variety of sensors and instruments designed to test the performance of wood in space and collect data for its possible application in future spacecraft. These tests will focus on evaluating the wood’s thermal conductivity, structural integrity and ability to withstand radiation exposure.
