From Flies to Tortoises: Animals That Have Been to Space

International News: Space travel has not been limited to humans. Scientists have also sent a variety of animals into space to study the effects of space on the behavior, physiological response and biology of living beings. The purpose of this experiment was to understand the effect of the space environment – ​​such as zero gravity, radiation and different temperatures – on living beings.

On February 20, 1947, ordinary fruit flies were first sent into space. They were sent in an American rocket and they returned alive. This experiment was very successful and after this scientists decided to send other animals into space as well.

Who went to space for the first time?

On June 14, 1949, two monkeys named 'Albert' were taken on a space trip. These monkeys were given special training so that they could be prepared for space travel. Although the technology of that time was not so advanced, it was a big step.

Rats were also sent into space

In 1950, rats were also sent into space. Rats are scientists' favourite subjects for experiments because their biological behaviour is somewhat similar to that of humans. Scientists observed the difference in their activities and physical changes in space conditions.

Laika: First Dog in Space

In 1957, the Soviet Union sent a dog into space. This dog was a stray animal, which was picked up from the street and prepared for a space mission. Its name was Laika. It was the first mammal to be sent into Earth's orbit. Although Laika could not return alive, this mission added a new chapter to space science.

These 7 animals also created history!

In 1968, Russia sent two turtles towards the moon. The long-term effects of space on these turtles were studied. This mission was also successful and the turtles returned safely. In 1970, NASA sent a special type of frog, the Burrowing Frog Oleander, into space. Its purpose was to understand the behavior of the vestibular system (the part of the body that maintains balance) in space.

When animals traveled to space

In 1973, two spiders – Anita and Arabella – were sent into space to see how they weave webs in zero gravity. This experiment proved to be interesting and successful. In 1963, France also sent a cat into space. The purpose of this unique mission was to understand how brain waves change in space. This experiment also brought a new experience.