LignoSat and its significance

Source: This post on LignoSat and its significance has been created based on the article “Explained: The significance of Lignosat, the first wooden satellite launched into space” published in Indian Express on 12th November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, LignoSat is the world’s first wood-panelled satellite launched into space.

About LignoSat

1. LignoSat is the world’s first wood-panelled satellite launched into space. This satellite marks a unique step toward renewable materials in space exploration.

2. It has been developed by Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry. It will orbit the Earth for six months, beginning one month after arrival at the ISS.

3. Design & Structure: The satellite is a small, cube-shaped device, measuring just 10 centimeters on each side and weighing 900 grams.

It features panels made from magnolia wood, crafted using traditional Japanese woodworking techniques without screws or glue.

4. Objectives: LignoSat will monitor wood’s endurance in space, where temperatures range from -100 to 100 degrees Celsius every 45 minutes. Researchers are examining wood’s resistance to space radiation and its potential to shield delicate semiconductors.

5. Goal: The goal is to explore sustainable building options, potentially for future habitats on the moon and Mars. It is also with the goal of testing timber as a sustainable alternative to metals in spacecraft.

6. Broader Implications and Goals

i) Reducing Metal Use in Space: Aluminium and other metals commonly used in satellites contribute to pollution upon re-entry. Wood, as a renewable material, could mitigate these environmental impacts.

ii) Future Possibilities: Kyoto University researchers aim to establish timber-based technologies to construct habitats and plant trees on the moon or Mars in the next 50 years.

Advantages of Wooden Satellites

i) Lower Environmental Impact: As a renewable material, wood could offer a greener solution for satellite design, reducing the space debris pollution problem.

ii) Potential Applications: LignoSat’s success could encourage further exploration into wood and other sustainable materials for satellites, particularly as the number of active satellites continues to grow.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology