13- International Hard or Feature News

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 First Wooden Satellite is Sent to Space

On November 5, 2024, the first wooden satellite was launched into space. The satellite Lignosat was developed by Kyoto University in Japan and Sumitomo Forestry. The researchers who developed the satellite are monitoring the sensors on the robot in order to discover how timber reacts to the environment outside of Earth's atmosphere. 


Professor Koji Murata, a forest science teacher at Kyoto University, stated "Wood is more durable in space than on Earth because there's no water or oxygen that would rot or inflame it". The researchers currently have a 50-year plan in store if the satellite proves to be durable during its six-month orbit. This plan includes growing trees on Mars in order to create a sustainable environment. 
Professor Takao Doi of Kyoto University holding Lignosat


With the increasing risk of space debris falling back to the surface of Earth, the researchers also wanted to create a satellite that has a reduced environmental impact. Because the base of the satellite is constructed of wood, it has the ability to burn up in the atmosphere upon reentry. Researchers will monitor the integrity of the satellite throughout its orbit in order to gather data on the wood's effectiveness. 

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