LignoSat: Japan Launches World's First Wooden Satellite In Fight Against Space Debris

newsdesk:

In a world-first, Japanese researchers have built a tiny wooden satellite named LignoSat that will be launched into space in September. This innovative project aims to reduce space debris by burning up completely upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.

LignoSat is a collaborative effort between Kyoto University and the logging company Sumitomo Forestry. With development beginning in April 2020, the satellite is a mere 10 centimetres on each side and is crafted from magnolia wood, selected for its strength and workability after space exposure tests were conducted on cherry, birch, and magnolia wood chips. The wood was sourced from Sumitomo Forestry's company forest.