World’s first wooden satellite is here

Japanese researchers have developed the world’s first-ever wooden satellite, scheduled for launch on a SpaceX rocket in September. Named LignoSat, each side of the satellite measures four inches.

Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry created the eco-friendly spacecraft using magnolia wood. It is made using a traditional Japanese method that doesn’t require screws or adhesives.

Why use wood?
The wooden satellite will completely burn off upon re-entry into the earth’s atmosphere, potentially reducing the environmental impact—like the release of toxic chemicals—the traditional satellites cause.

Developers believe non-metal satellites should become mainstream to mitigate environmental and telecommunications issues.

The satellite will be handed to the JAXA space agency next week. In the fall, it will launch from the Kennedy Space Center and arrive at the International Space Station (ISS), which will test the cube’s durability and temperature resilience in outer space.