LignoSat, an innovative wooden satellite developed by Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry, was recently launched into space aboard a SpaceX rocket. This marks a significant milestone in space exploration.
The unique feature of this satellite is its wooden construction, which is expected to burn up upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. This could potentially reduce the environmental impact caused by metal particles from decommissioned satellites.
Measuring just 10 centimeters on each side, LignoSat represents a new era in satellite technology. It was successfully launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida and is now en route to the International Space Station (ISS).
Once at the ISS, LignoSat will be released into outer space for testing its durability and strength. Data collected from the satellite will help researchers assess its performance under extreme conditions.
Takao Doi, an astronaut and professor at Kyoto University, emphasized the importance of non-metallic satellites becoming more common in future space missions. This groundbreaking project opens up new possibilities for sustainable space exploration.
Source: www.ibtimes.com