LignoSat was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on November 5, 2024, as part of a resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The satellite, measuring just 10 centimeters (four inches) on each side, is currently en route to the ISS, where it will be deployed into Earth’s orbit about a month later.
Unique Construction
LignoSat is constructed primarily from honoki, a type of Japanese magnolia tree traditionally used to make sword sheaths. The wooden panels were crafted using a traditional Japanese woodworking technique called sashimono, which does not require screws or glue to hold the pieces together.
