When a paper airplane is launched from the International Space Station (ISS), it faces an intriguing fate—surviving re-entry only to burn up before reaching the ground. This captivating experiment was conducted by researchers at the University of Tokyo, who aimed to explore its potential insights for future space technology.
The ISS orbits roughly 250 miles above the Earth, zipping along at a speedy 17,500 miles per hour. So, what actually happens if you launch a paper airplane from this floating lab? Instead of launching a real paper glider, researchers Maximilien Berthet and Kojiro Suzuki utilized advanced simulations and hypersonic wind tunnel tests. Their findings, published in the journal Acta Astronautica, shed light on its performance and potential applications in space missions.
The research delved into flight stability, heat resistance, and even potential uses such as biodegradable braking sails and tools for atmospheric research. The simulation encompassed the entire flight path, considering factors like Earth’s gravity, air resistance, and the intense heat of re-entry.
To verify these simulations, the team tested a scaled-down model with a paper nose and aluminum tail in a hypersonic wind tunnel, reaching speeds of Mach 7 and temperatures up to 650 Kelvin (about 801°F). Initially, the paper airplane maintained stability, mirroring the ISS’s speed. It began tumbling around 75 miles above the Earth, with its nose and wing edges showing signs of charring but not full destruction. Even as the nose bent, it partially regained shape. However, the intense heat ensured it never reached the ground, burning up between 56 and 68 miles.
While this might sound like a playful experiment, it offers valuable insights for the future. The researchers propose that ultra-light origami structures made from paper can serve as sustainable alternatives to conventional materials like Mylar or Kapton. From biodegradable sails for satellites to low-cost carriers for thin-film technologies, these innovations could lead to more sustainable and engaging educational tools.
Despite the fact that paper contains mineral fillers like kaolin, which impact its environmental footprint, the idea of using simple, stable structures capable of enduring atmospheric re-entry is both intriguing and promising.
