The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, otherwise known as JAXA, works together with NASA as the two prepare the launch of LignoSat. This is the first satellite that is crafted nearly entirely out of wood -- it is set to orbit into space this summer with the mission of exploring sustainable materials in spaceflight.
LignoSat is constructed from magnolia wood by the team at Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry. It measures about a similar size as a coffee mug and the wood was selected due to its resilience and stability under the conditions of space. This mission will be closely studied to see how the wooden structure will withstand in space to apply this information to the potential of wood in future missions.
Inaugural Wooden Satellites
JAXA and NASA Work Together on the LignoSat Satellite Launch
Trend Themes
1. Wooden Satellites in Space - Exploring the durability of wood in space for satellite construction opens up new possibilities for sustainable materials in aerospace engineering.
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3. Collaborative Innovation in Aerospace - Partnerships between agencies like JAXA and NASA pave the way for groundbreaking projects in satellite design and materials research.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - The aerospace industry can leverage the research on wooden satellites to explore novel materials for future spacecraft development.
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