Kyoto University researcher Koji Murata is pushing the boundaries of space exploration by testing the use of biological materials in satellites. Murata has recently developed a wooden satellite named LingoSat, aiming to assess the viability of wood for space structures.
One major advantage of wooden satellites is their environmental friendliness. Unlike metal satellites, wood would burn up safely upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, preventing the release of potentially harmful metallic particles that could damage the ozone layer. This makes wooden satellites a more sustainable option for space exploration.
The team at Kyoto University conducted tests using three different types of wood: birch, cherry, and magnolia. From these trials, scientists concluded that magnolia wood possessed the most desirable characteristics for space applications. Its small and uniform cells allow for easier processing and decrease the likelihood of splitting or breaking.
The launch of the LingoSat wooden satellite is a collaborative effort involving Kyoto University, Japan’s space agency (JAXA), and NASA. This joint mission demonstrates the significance of exploring alternative materials for space structures.
Interestingly, another wooden satellite called WISA Woodsat, designed by Finnish startup Arctic Astronautics, is also awaiting launch pending bureaucratic approval. This indicates a growing interest in wooden satellites among researchers and innovators in the space industry.
Murata’s exploration of wood in space structures is not an isolated endeavor. Yarjan Abdul Samad, a researcher at Khalifa University in the UAE, is investigating the combination of wood with graphene for space objects. These innovative collaborations demonstrate the potential benefits and possibilities of utilizing wood in space exploration.
While there are still many unknowns surrounding the use of wood in space, organizations like JAXA are actively conducting research to uncover its potential advantages. The launch of LingoSat in the summer of 2024 will serve as a crucial milestone in evaluating the performance of wooden satellites in space conditions. Scientists will closely monitor LingoSat for at least six months to gather valuable data on its functionality and durability.
The development of wooden satellites not only presents a step forward in innovative space technology but also showcases the importance of sustainable practices within the industry. As researchers continue to explore the possibilities of wood in space structures, they bring us closer to a more eco-friendly and responsible space exploration era.
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