Welcome to Learning English, a daily 30-minute program from the Voice of America.

I'm Katie Weaver.

And I'm Mario Ritter Jr.

This program is designed for English learners, So we speak a little slower,

and we use words and phrases,

especially written for people learning English.

On today's show, we report on Japan's space program

and unusual farmers in Mexico.

Ana Mateo presents the Health and Lifestyle Report, and finally, the lesson of the day.

But first...

An experimental satellite made out of wood has been launched into space.

Japanese developers of the device say it is the first time a wooden satellite has ever been sent to space.

The small satellite, called Lignosat, launched aboard an uncrewed cargo dragon spacecraft

to the International Space Station, ISS.

The satellite will later be released into orbit about 400 kilometers above Earth.

The satellite was built in the form of a box, with each side measuring about 10 centimeters.

It was developed jointly by researchers at Kyoto University and Japanese home builder

Sumatomo Forestry. A spokeswoman for Sumatomo Forestry told the French news agency, AFP, that the launch of the satellite was successful.

She said the plan calls for the device to be released into orbit in about a month, when its strength and effectiveness will be tested.

While made mostly of wood, Lignosat contains electronic elements that will control its movements

and collect data on its operation. Once deployed, the satellite is expected to remain in orbit for about six months.

The main goal of the experimental satellite is to see whether wood material can be used

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