Researchers at Kyoto University announced that they have completed construction of LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, and plan to launch it into orbit in September.
(Read: The ancient member of the Solar System in which they now found water in space).
LignoSat, a combination of the words ligno, a prefix meaning wood, and satellite, is the result of about four years of research by Kyoto University and the company Sumitomo Forestry, with the aim of creating a satellite that is more respectful of the environment and at a lower cost.
The small CubeSat satellite has successfully passed rigorous safety inspections carried out by NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), marking the first time that a wooden satellite has been approved for use. in the space.
(See: Meet the oldest man to conquer space).
“Conventional satellites generate alumina particles during combustion, which can have a negative impact on Earth’s climate and communications. Since wood burns when it re-enters the atmosphere, this impact is expected to be reduced.”the educational center said in a statement.
Space
iStock
The University considers that this is a step “extremely valuable” for the space and wood industry and that “it will help open the possibilities of using this material, a sustainable resource”.
Built using the traditional Japanese carpentry method, whereby no screws or adhesive are used, LignoSat is a 10-centimeter cube made from 4 to 5.5 millimeter-thick magnolia wood panels, with a frame partially constructed of aluminum. .
It also has solar panels placed on some sides and weighs approximately 1 kilogram.
(Also: An ‘inflated’ planet: the James Webb telescope solves the mystery of WASP-107 b).
“In the future we would like to create a satellite, including the electronic substrate part (inside), made entirely of wood”said Takao Doi, an astronaut who works as a professor for a program at Kyoto University.
The satellite will be delivered to JAXA on June 4 and launched, possibly in September. from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida (United States), bound for the International Space Station, on a SpaceX ship.
EFE
Add Comment