World's first wooden satellite launched into space
World's first wooden satellite launched into space
Researchers from Japan believe that timber is a space-grade material that could on day be used to build houses on Mars. Their satellite was crafted from honoki wood without screws or glue to hold it together.
Summary
Japan launched the world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, to test if wood can function as a space-grade material. Developed by Kyoto University, the satellite is made of honoki wood, chosen after a 10-month ISS experiment proved its suitability for space.
Designed without screws or glue, LignoSat will orbit Earth for six months, enduring extreme temperature swings and measuring wood’s resistance to space radiation. Advocates highlight wood’s eco-friendly re-entry properties compared to metal.
Researchers envision wooden structures for future space habitats, potentially boosting the timber industry.
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All Hearthian interlopers would be proud.