Japan Deploys World's First Wooden Satellite, Pioneering Sustainable Space Tech

LignoSat, made from honoki magnolia wood, will test the viability of timber as a material for space exploration and its potential to reduce environmental impact.

LignoSat, developed by JAXA, Kyoto University, and Sumitomo Forestry, was launched to the ISS in November 2024 and deployed into Earth's orbit in December 2024.
The 10 cm CubeSat is constructed from honoki magnolia wood using traditional Japanese joinery, avoiding the use of screws or glue.
Sensors aboard LignoSat will analyze the effects of space conditions, such as cosmic radiation and extreme temperature fluctuations, on the wood's durability and structural integrity.
The mission will also investigate whether wood can shield electronics from geomagnetic interference, with potential applications for lunar and Mars missions.
If successful, wooden satellites could offer a sustainable alternative to conventional materials, reducing space debris and environmental impact during atmospheric reentry.