KYOTO - A groundbreaking project to develop the world’s first artificial satellite made of wood is underway in Kyoto, led by astronaut Takao Doi. The initiative is part of a broader push toward environmentally sustainable space exploration.
In December two years ago, researchers at Kyoto University began working on the satellite, which measures about 10 centimeters on each side and weighs around one kilogram. Doi, who made history about 30 years ago as the first Japanese astronaut to perform an extravehicular activity in space, is leading the project.
"The view of Earth from space is truly breathtaking," said Doi, who is now a researcher at Kyoto University. "It leaves a deep impression."
Doi became increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of space development, particularly the rise in aluminum oxide particles generated when conventional metal satellites re-enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up.
"As more satellites enter orbit, the amount of aluminum oxide left behind during re-entry also increases. This could contribute to abnormal weather patterns, which were previously unimaginable," he said.
Traditional satellites are typically constructed from metals such as aluminum. When they complete their missions and burn up upon re-entering the atmosphere, oxidized aluminum particles can remain and accumulate, potentially disturbing the climate.
Doi turned to wood as a solution. "Wood burns cleanly, turning into carbon dioxide and water vapor without leaving metal residue. A wooden satellite won’t pollute the atmosphere during re-entry, no matter how many are launched," he explained.
Last year, a rocket carrying the wooden satellite was launched. The development team watched anxiously as it was released into space alongside two other satellites. While the deployment was successful, attempts to establish communication the following morning failed.
"We’re not hearing anything... It's out of sight. No good," one team member commented.
Despite more than 200 attempts, no response was received from the wooden satellite. Researchers believe the issue may have been due to a failure in the external antenna deployment.
In response, the team began working on a second version of the satellite. Drawing on wood’s ability to transmit radio waves, they redesigned the second model with an internal antenna. The revised satellite is scheduled for launch in fiscal 2027.
"If successful, wooden satellites could become a major step toward practical use, helping preserve the Earth’s environment," said Doi.
Source: TBS
