The world’s first wooden satellite was launched into space by a SpaceX rocket, according to what the Japanese designers announced on Tuesday, in a step that is within the framework of the mission to the Space Station International resupply.
The Center for Space Studies at Kyoto University indicated that the experimental satellite named “Lignosat“, which is shaped like a wooden cube measuring only 10 centimeters on each side, was launched via a rocket without a payload. -work from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The aim of accepting wood is to anticipate the end of its life, because when it returns to the atmosphere, it is intended to burn without generating metal particles that are usually the result of satellites that ‘ landing on Earth, according to scientists from Kyoto.
These particles could have a negative impact on the environment and communication, according to scientists The Japanese Space Agency, in a post on the platform “X”, explained that the wooden satellite was installed inside a custom box that the group “launched into. place.”
A spokesman for the Sumitomo Forestry Company, which participated in the creation of “lignosat,” confirmed through Agence France-Presse that the launch was “successful,” saying that the satellite “will soon arrive at the International Space Station and to be launched into. place after about a month” to test its strength and durability.
The satellite will send data to researchers who will be able to analyze the signs of recorded anomalies and find out if it can withstand extreme temperature changes.
“Satellites that are not made of metal should become more widespread,” said astronomer and professor at Kyoto University Takao Doa at a press conference at the beginning of the year.
