A view of the sea

Japan Sends World's First Wooden Satellite Into Space

Japan launches the world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, into Earth's orbit, marking a revolutionary moment for space technology

Built from magnolia wood, LignoSat is designed to test how natural materials perform in the extreme conditions of outer space without burning or breaking down

Unlike metal satellites, wooden satellites like LignoSat burn up completely upon reentering Earth's atmosphere, reducing space debris and environmental harm

LignoSat was created by researchers at Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry after years of testing wood's durability in space-like conditions

The satellite is tiny, about the size of a coffee mug, but its mission could have a huge impact on the future of eco-friendly space missions

Wood does not interfere with electronic signals like metals do and offers a sustainable, lightweight, and efficient alternative for satellite construction

As LignoSat orbits the planet scientists will monitor its performance closely paving the way for a future where ancient materials help drive modern innovation

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