This was reported by Space.com, according to Ukrinform’s report.

LignoSat, a coffee cup-sized satellite made of magnolia wood, is planned to be launched into Earth orbit in the summer of 2024. In this way, scientists are trying to make space debris biodegradable.

It has been noted that wood does not burn or rot in space, but will burn after returning to the Earth’s atmosphere.

Following the successful testing of wood samples aboard the International Space Station (ISS) earlier this year, scientists believe the test satellite is ready for launch.

Scientists tested three tree samples: magnolia, cherry and birch. As a result of the experiments, it was revealed that they did not deform in space despite temperature changes and active cosmic radiation. After the tests, no cracks, distortions, surface damage, etc. was not seen either.

As a result, magnolia was chosen for its tolerance to processing, as it is unlikely to split during the production of the satellite.

It is stated that there are objects in Earth orbit today with a total mass of approximately 8,440 metric tons, including dead satellites and the remains of spent rocket stages. Scientists say debris from metals such as titanium and aluminum creates additional light pollution that interferes with astronomers’ observations.

In addition, metal devices pose a threat to the ISS and manned ships, and can also threaten people on Earth. Wooden satellites are expected to create less debris and burn up completely in the atmosphere.

As Ukrinform reported, Japan in September successfully launched the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries H2A launch vehicle, which launched the XRISM X-ray observatory and the SLIM lunar landing module into space.

Photo: Kyoto University