NASA and JAXA have launched LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, to combat space junk with a biodegradable solution.
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NASA & Japan Launch World’s First Wooden Satellite A Game-Changer for Space & Earth’s Future
LignoSat: The World’s First Wooden Satellite Enters Orbit
In a groundbreaking step toward sustainable space technology, the world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, is now officially in Earth’s orbit. Roughly the size of a coffee mug, this unique satellite was successfully deployed from the International Space Station (ISS) in December 2024, NASA confirmed in a statement on January 7, 2025.
LignoSat is a joint project between the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and NASA, designed to explore the potential of biodegradable materials in space technology. With space debris becoming a growing concern, scientists are looking for eco-friendly alternatives to conventional satellite materials.
Why Use Wood in Space?
Wood may seem like an unusual choice for a satellite, but it offers several key advantages. In the vacuum of space, wood doesn’t burn, rot, or degrade, making it a surprisingly durable material for satellites. However, upon reentry into Earth’s atmosphere, it burns up completely, leaving behind only a fine ash. This makes wooden satellites a biodegradable alternative to metal-based satellites, which contribute to orbital debris and environmental pollution.
To test its feasibility, scientists conducted a 10-month experiment aboard the ISS in 2024, exposing three types of wood samples to the harsh conditions of space. The results were promising—despite extreme temperature fluctuations, exposure to cosmic rays, and solar radiation, the wood samples showed no signs of cracking, warping, or surface damage.
A Step Toward Sustainable Space Exploration
The success of LignoSat could revolutionize satellite technology, providing a sustainable solution to the problem of space junk. If wooden satellites prove viable, they could significantly reduce the environmental impact of future space missions.
With this historic launch, JAXA and NASA have taken a major step toward developing more responsible, green technologies for space exploration. As scientists continue to push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability, LignoSat may mark the beginning of a new era in spaceflight—one where technology and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
This internal view of LignoSat’s structure shows the relationship among the satellite's wooden panels, aluminum frames, and stainless-steel shafts. (Image credit: Kyoto University)
To determine the best wood for space use, scientists sent three wood samples — magnolia, cherry, and birch — to the International Space Station (ISS), where they were exposed to the harsh conditions of space. After testing, the researchers chose magnolia due to its durability, as it is less prone to splitting or breaking during manufacturing.
Currently, more than 9,300 tons (8,440 metric tons) of space debris, including inactive satellites and spent rocket parts, orbit Earth. These objects, often made from shiny metals like titanium and aluminum, contribute to light pollution by increasing the brightness of the night sky by over 10%. This excess brightness can hinder the observation of distant celestial phenomena, making it more difficult for astronomers to study the universe.
By using biodegradable materials like magnolia wood for future satellites, scientists hope to reduce the environmental impact of space exploration, particularly in terms of space debris and light pollution. With LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, researchers are taking a significant step toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to space technology.