World’s first wooden satellite launched, paves way for timber use in space

Japanese researchers have launched the world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, on Oct. 5, marking a key moment in space exploration and the future use of sustainable materials beyond Earth. Developed as part of a collaborative project between Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry Co., Ltd., LignoSat was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) and will soon orbit Earth at an altitude of approximately 400 kilometers.

The LignoStella Project, launched in April 2020 by Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry, aimed to explore the potential of wood as a material for space use. LignoSat—a 100mm cube-shaped nanosatellite—was handed over to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in June after undergoing extensive safety inspections by both JAXA and NASA. The project represents the first officially recognized use of wood in space, with the satellite having passed rigorous tests confirming its durability and safety in extreme space conditions.

Wood offers several benefits for use in space, including its environmental friendliness. Traditional metal satellites may release alumina particles during re-entry, potentially impacting Earth’s climate and communication systems. In contrast, wooden satellites combust fully during re-entry, minimizing environmental damage and aligning with international guidelines to mitigate space debris. Researchers believe wooden satellites could help reduce the negative environmental impacts of decommissioning traditional satellites.

The LignoSat project aims to demonstrate the viability of renewable materials in space as humanity considers long-term habitation on the Moon and Mars. Researchers envision wood being used to construct habitats and workspaces in space, providing a sustainable alternative to current materials.

Honoki wood, a type of Japanese magnolia from Sumitomo Forestry’s owned forests in Hokkaido, was chosen for the satellite due to its strength and resilience. This selection followed a ten-month trial aboard the ISS, where the wood underwent vibration, thermal vacuum, and outgassing tests from March to December 2022. Results showed that wood endured the harsh conditions of space and posed no threat to astronaut safety or sensitive equipment. The satellite was constructed without screws or adhesives, using an ancient Japanese woodworking technique called “Tomegata Kakushi Ari Kumitsugi,” which emphasizes precision and strength.

Once deployed from Japan’s Kibo module on the ISS, LignoSat will orbit Earth for roughly six months. During this time, it will test the endurance of wood under extreme conditions and investigate the material’s capacity to shield semiconductors from space radiation, an insight that could benefit industries such as data center construction.

The LignoStella Project’s achievement marks a major advance in sustainable space exploration and offers new opportunities to revitalize Japan’s forestry industry, demonstrating how traditional materials can find innovative uses in modern technology.