In an exciting leap towards eco-friendly space exploration, the world witnessed the launch of LignoSat, the first wooden satellite, aboard SpaceX’s 31st resupply mission to the International Space Station on November 4, 2024. This groundbreaking satellite is the result of a collaboration between innovative minds at Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry under the LignoStella project, aiming to pioneer the use of sustainable materials in space technology.
LignoSat’s composition features Hinoki wood, a type of Japanese cypress sourced from Sumitomo Forestry’s Monbetsu forests. This timber was skillfully assembled using the traditional “Tomega Kakushi Ariku Mitsugi” joinery technique, which forgoes metals and adhesives—a testament to its ecologically conscious design. To fortify its structure, the wood-based body is complemented with aluminum framing. The satellite also houses essential electronics, solar panels, and antennas within its compact 1U CubeSat proportions.
Over four years of meticulous development and testing have gone into ensuring LignoSat’s readiness for space. The team examined wood degradation under space conditions, evaluated radio-frequency emissions, and ensured space flight safety. Once it reaches the ISS, LignoSat will be stationed in the JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer before commencing its six-month mission in orbit. During this time, it will demonstrate its capacity to endure space conditions and potentially mitigate space radiation—a promising prospect for future satellite construction.
For amateur radio enthusiasts, LignoSat offers the intriguing opportunity to engage directly with the satellite. It is equipped with two dipole antennas that facilitate the reception and broadcasting of radio frequency signals. Operators can transmit FM messages to LignoSat, which will decode and send back messages containing call signs and SSIDs. Furthermore, QTH encoded messages can be decoded and downloaded over an FM downlink for display on the project’s website.
This initiative not only paves the way for circumventing hazardous metal pollutants in satellite reentry but also invites radio operators and hobbyists to actively participate in this cutting-edge space experiment. For those inspired by this endeavor, NASA provides a guide titled “CubeSat 101” for aspiring builders, while enthusiasts can explore hobby kits available online to create their own models.
LignoSat represents a step forward in developing sustainable technologies that hold potential to transform the future landscape of space exploration, while engaging the global community in scientific innovation.
