NASA and Japan to Launch the World’s First Wooden Satellite

Over the last few years, various projects have been developed on sustainable living for planet Earth. However, these projects are only globe It seems that it is not limited to . NASA and Japan They have an interesting project for the satellite they will launch into space.

NASA and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), satellites to make spaceflight more sustainable. LignoSat plans to launch the world’s first wooden satellite into space.

According to space agencies, this satellite will be made of magnolia wood and will be only the size of a coffee mug.

in 2024 The wooden satellite planned to be launched into space may be a source of inspiration for satellites to be launched into space in the future. Because wood is a substance that does not burn, rot or suffer any damage in the vacuum of space. However, from the moment it entered Earth orbit to burn and decompose in the atmosphere starts. This turns it into an organic waste.

earlier this year International Space Station (ISS) In studies conducted by wooden satellite samples It was tested and successful results were obtained. The wooden satellite, which is only the size of a coffee mug, is deemed suitable for launching into space.

So why did they use the magnolia tree and not another tree?

In studies conducted by scientists in May 2023, three tree species It appears that all three species have been tested and do not show any deformation when exposed to space conditions. These three tree species, which remained in space for 10 months, were not affected by any temperature changes or cosmic rays.

Cherry, birch and magnolia Scientists who tested the trees decided on the magnolia tree. Because the magnolia tree, compared to other trees, was damaged during the production of the satellite. less deformation showed and bent less than other trees. This shows that the magnolia tree can stay in space for longer.

There are already tons of waste in space, and the idea of ​​a wooden satellite could prevent this pollution from increasing in the future.

Currently in Earth orbit satellites not working And used rocket parts There is a lot of space debris such as: up to 9,300 tons These wastes further increase ambient light because they contain substances such as titanium and aluminum. This negatively affects scientists’ space observations.

In addition from metal The cost of satellites and spacecraft is higher. It is planned to reduce these costs thanks to wooden satellites, and if humanity sends more spacecraft into space, great danger It may be on its way.