Exploring Space with LignoSat World’s First Wooden Satellite
LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, was launched on November 4, 2024, aboard SpaceX’s 31st ISS resupply mission. Developed by Kyoto University in partnership with Sumitomo Forestry, this groundbreaking project aims to use wood as an eco-friendly alternative to metal in satellite construction. By utilizing wood, LignoSat aims to reduce the harmful metal particles released into the atmosphere when satellites reenter Earth.
Why LignoSat Is Made of Wood
The main reason behind the creation of the wooden satellite, LignoSat, lies in its potential environmental benefits. Traditional satellites contain metals that burn up upon reentry, releasing metal particles that can pollute the atmosphere. The development team chose Hinoki wood, a Japanese cypress known for its durability, sourced from Sumitomo Forestry’s Monbetsu forests. Using wood not only reduces environmental impact but also demonstrates the potential for sustainable materials in aerospace.
世界初の木造人工衛星LignoSatを乗せたスペースX社のSpX-31が無事アメリカフロリダ州のケネディ宇宙センターから打上げられました。SpX-31は国際宇宙ステーションに物質を運ぶ輸送船です。この中にLignoSatがJAXAの小型衛星放出機構（J-SSOD）に収められ、宇宙に飛び立ちました。 pic.twitter.com/sEbn1ZHVEY
— 京大宇宙木材プロジェクト (@spaceKUwood) November 5, 2024
Innovative Craftsmanship in Satellite Design
The structure of the LignoSat was built using a traditional Japanese joinery technique, “Tomega Kakushi Ariku Mitsugi,” which involves no metals or adhesives. Aluminum framing was used to reinforce the satellite’s edges, while the inner sections house electronics, solar panels, and antennas. This innovative design showcases the feasibility of constructing functional, eco-friendly space technology.
木造構体製作24番目「完成（その1）」の動画です。黒田工房：https://t.co/YB0s85qkB4で作業が行われています。木造構体が遂に完成しました。木造構体を分解してみましょう。まず、+Yパネルを外し、次に+Z面と-Z面をスライドさせて外します。最後に+X面と-X面を木組みから引き抜きます。 pic.twitter.com/Vu8I7KLTtw
— 京大宇宙木材プロジェクト (@spaceKUwood) November 29, 2023
Testing LignoSat’s Capabilities in Space
Before deployment, LignoSat underwent rigorous testing to ensure it could endure harsh space conditions. Once aboard the ISS, it will be ejected into orbit for a six-month mission to test the durability of wood in space. This mission will determine if wood can withstand space radiation and extreme conditions, setting the stage for future sustainable satellite designs.
LignoSat’s Unique Communication System
LignoSat also serves as an interactive tool for amateur radio enthusiasts. Equipped with two dipole antennas, it allows operators to send messages and receive signals. This unique feature enables enthusiasts worldwide to connect with the LignoSat, adding an engaging, community-driven aspect to the mission.
Source – Kyoto University Space Timber Project on X, Kyoto University SIC Human Spaceology Center, Kyoto University SIC Human Spaceology Center on Readyfor, Sumitomo Forestry news release, Readyfor on YouTube, Kyoto University LignoSat 10-month space exposure testing results, ANN News on YouTube, Reuters
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