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Context

The world's first wooden satellite, built by Japanese researchers, was launched into space, in an early test of using timber in lunar and Mars exploration.

Details

Japan has made history by launching LignoSat, the world’s first satellite made primarily from wood.

Created by researchers at Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry, LignoSat will be tested aboard the International Space Station (ISS) before being released into Earth’s orbit.

Read about ISS: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/international-space-station-42

This small, cube-shaped satellite aims to showcase the potential of using timber in space technology, especially as humanity looks to explore and possibly build on the Moon and Mars.

Why Wood in Space?

Wood might seem unusual for a satellite, but it has many potential advantages.

Unlike metal satellites, which create harmful particles when they re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, a wooden satellite would burn up without leaving pollutants.

Since space lacks oxygen and water, wood doesn’t rot or catch fire as it might on Earth, making it surprisingly durable.

As space debris grows, using materials that break down without leaving pollution is increasingly important.

Read about space debris: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/space-debris-28

Testing the Limits

LignoSat is crafted from honoki wood (a type of magnolia), which has a strong tradition in Japan for uses requiring durability, like sword sheaths.

The satellite was assembled without any screws or glue, following traditional Japanese techniques.

For six months, it will orbit the Earth, enduring extreme temperatures that shift from -100°C to 100°C in rapid cycles, testing wood’s resilience to space conditions.

Conclusion

This wooden satellite could be a major step toward eco-friendly space technology. If successful, LignoSat may lead to more wooden spacecraft components or even timber-based structures on other planets, potentially making wood a key building material in space exploration.

Sources:

NDTV

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Discuss the potential and challenges of using timber in space technology, with reference to environmental sustainability and material resilience. (150 Words)

LIGNOSAT