Japan Is Preparing to Launch Its First Wooden Satellite in 2023

Over decades, the space-related activities of satellite launch histories have cast aluminum into space due to the most used material to construct satellites. Despite its high cost, aluminum was selected for its fine durability in the space environment. However, some Japanese scientists from Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry Co. proposed a novel idea of developing a wooden satellite. As the name implies, the satellite will be made of wood.

These scientists from the “Land of the Rising Sun” have their own concerns regarding the aluminum satellites; the hazardous environmental effects and the high cost. According to scientists, the wooden satellite will have a less harmful impact on the environment. Cost-wise, the planned satellite will also be more efficient. Japan aims to release the satellite into space next year, by 2023.

Material Feasibility Test for Wooden Satellite

Before the satellite’s initial flight in 2023, given that the satellite is composed of wood, a state university in western Japan and a wood products company in Tokyo sought to test the endurance of wood in space starting in February.

Led by an astronaut from Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Takao Doi, the team will conduct the test using a piece of extravehicular experimental equipment from the International Space Station (ISS). They will attach wooden sheets to the equipment and subject them to space conditions for about nine months.

The hardness of the woods used in this experiment varies as they are collected from different tree species, including Japanese bigleaf magnolia, mountain cherry tree, and gold birch. During the nine months, the team will assess the exposed wooden sheets to see if they have deteriorated. It’s because materials in space have their strength decreased to the presence of radiation.

The Feature and Design

Which part of the satellite is made of wood? Engineers disclosed that the exterior would be composed of wood and decorated with solar cells while the interior would hold some electrical items. The wooden satellite will be cube-shaped with sides of 10 centimeters.

According to Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry Co. experts, the shell of the wooden satellite will burn up easily when it re-enters Earth’s atmosphere as the service of the satellite terminates. Considering that the burning material is wood, which is a natural substance, it will reduce the harmful impact on the environment.

As per Japan Today, “Because electromagnetic waves can penetrate wood, the satellite can contain an antenna inside.” Thus, the satellite design will be more practical. Doi stated that if the wooden satellite concept is successful, it may encourage children of space enthusiasts to build their own satellites in the future.