Japan Launches World's First Wooden Satellite LignoSat Aboard SpaceX Rocket to Test Magnolia Wood in Space

Nov 5, 2024, 09:13 AM

On November 5, Japan launched the world's first wooden satellite, LignoSat, into space aboard a SpaceX rocket as part of a resupply mission to the International Space Station. Developed by Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry, the small cube satellite is made from durable Japanese magnolia wood (honoki) and assembled without metal screws or glue. Over a six-month mission, it will orbit near the ISS to test the durability of wooden materials in the harsh space environment. Researchers aim to explore the potential of timber in future lunar and Mars exploration.