NASA has successfully deployed LignoSat, the world's first wooden satellite, from the International Space Station (ISS) to evaluate the performance of renewable materials in the harsh conditions of space. Developed by Kyoto University in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry, LignoSat is a 1U cubesat, measuring 4 inches (10 centimeters) on each side, designed to remain in orbit for approximately six months.
The mission aims to assess how the magnolia-wood body of LignoSat withstands extreme temperature fluctuations and high radiation levels encountered in near-Earth space. This experiment could pave the way for innovative spacecraft designs, particularly as concerns grow regarding the environmental impact of satellite reentries.
Currently, traditional satellite materials such as aluminum alloys contribute to atmospheric pollution upon reentry, releasing metallic dust that may affect climate. If LignoSat proves resilient, it could lead to a new generation of eco-friendly satellites.
Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on November 5, 2024, LignoSat was deployed from the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Kibo module in December 2024, alongside four other experimental mini-satellites. The mission will also monitor geomagnetic levels to determine their impact on the wooden satellite's technological capabilities.
Retired Japanese astronaut Takao Doi, now a professor at Kyoto University, expressed interest in collaborating with SpaceX for future projects if LignoSat successfully demonstrates its viability. With SpaceX operating nearly 7,000 satellites, addressing satellite pollution is increasingly crucial for the space industry.
This innovative approach aligns with global efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of space exploration, potentially transforming how satellites are designed and deployed in the future.