LignoSat

01.06.2024

LignoSat

Why in the news?   

          In a world-first, Japanese researchers have built a tiny wooden satellite named LignoSat that will be launched into space in September.

About LignoSat:

• LignoSat”, a fusion of “ligno” (the Latin word for wood) and “satellite”,.
• It is developed by collaborative research and development by a team comprising members from Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry Co.
• Objective: Their objective is to leverage the eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness of wood in space exploration.
• LignoSat is constructed from magnolia wood, chosen for its durability and adaptability following rigorous space exposure assessments conducted on samples of cherry, birch and magnolia wood chips. The raw material originates from Sumitomo Forestry’s company-owned forest.
• LignoSat, a 10-centimeter cube, comprises 4 to 5.5 millimeter-thick magnolia wood panels, complemented by a frame partially crafted from aluminium.
• Equipped with solar panels attached to select sides, the satellite weighs approximately 1 kilogram.
• It will first be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a SpaceX rocket from the Kennedy Space Center.

• Once it reaches the ISS, it will be released from the Japanese experiment module to test its durability and strength.
• Researchers will receive data from the satellite to monitor its performance, including signs of strain and its ability to withstand extreme temperature changes.

Why is wood used?

• Wooden satellites are viewed as more environmentally friendly upon reentering the Earth's atmosphere at the conclusion of their mission.
• Unlike metal satellites, which pose air pollution risks due to the generation of metal particles during reentry, wooden satellites mitigate these concerns.

                                                                              Source: Ndtv

Ques :- Consider the following statements with reference to the LignoSat:

Statement-I

It is developed by the European space agency and NASA.

Statement-II

 It is a wooden satellite that will be sent to the International Space Station.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.

B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.

C.Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.

D.Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.

Answer D