Although giant metal devices from special materials come to mind when it comes to launching a satellite into space, this time the satellite is very different. In fact, if we exaggerate a little, we can make it ourselves from this satellite with the materials at home.
Named WISA Woodsat, this nano-satellite is shaped like a cube and has a length of 10 centimeters on each side. The satellite, which weighs about 1 kilogram, is made of plywood, while the surface panels are covered with a special coating material called WISA. The purpose of the satellite is to observe how plywood reacts in space.
Making Satellites Like Furniture
The aim of the mission, prepared by Finland-based firm Arctic Astronautics, is to observe the changes that will occur in the plywood in the harsh conditions of space and to determine its possible use in the future.
Arctic Astronautics is known as a firm that designs cube satellites for students. It is not surprising, therefore, that the satellite they developed is also quite simple. There will be only two cameras and a sensor on the satellite. One of these cameras will be attached to the end of a metal rod and will observe the satellite. Thus, changes in the plywood can be observed.
According to the company’s statement, the plywood to be used will be made of birch wood. In other words, a wood that can be found in any construction market or carpenter will be used. The wood to be used will be dried in a thermal vacuum chamber. A very thin layer of aluminum oxide will be coated on it.
How Can A Wooden Satellite Go Into Space?
Chief engineer Samuili Nymanm, one of the company’s founders, says aluminum oxide, which is often used to insulate electronic components, will prevent wood from emitting gases in space and protect the surface from corrosive atomic oxygen.
According to the company, the satellite will darken a little, but it will survive in space. The pressure sensor placed in addition to the two cameras will enable to observe the pressure of the satellite. In addition, 3D printed electronic circuits with a special method will be tested on the satellite. The success of these circuits will increase the possibilities for circuit printing in space in the future. The satellite will also have nine small solar cells and a radio transmitter.
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