Laika, a female dog, was the first Earth creature that travelled outer from the Earth. Laika wasn’t able to survive for much time but Laika and other animals sent to space at that time really helped humans to understand what will happen to the human body if they enter into space. But is it right using animals to understand these things? Do we have any moral reason to do this?
That is such a good question. I guess it depends on whom you ask.
Laika did not survive for a long time in space, and I can only imagine how terrifying it must have been for her. She was a stray dog, so she probably didn't have a great life to start with. Then her life was ended prematurely by sending her into space. Rest in peace, Laika!
Laika is not the only animal to have been sent to space. Guinea pigs, rabbits, fruit flies, chimps, reptiles, mice, monkeys, rats, a cat.. we've sent a bunch of animals into space so far.
Two lesser known dogs are Belka and Strelka. Both were sent into space and came back alive.
Also, the Russian space dogs Veterok and Ugolyok spent 22 days in space and they landed safely. This happened in 1966 and to this day, no other dogs have been in space for that long.
The French launched a cat into space in 1963. The cat landed safely.
Did you know.. birds cannot be brought into space because they need gravity in order to be able to swallow.
Overall, sending animals in space is very strongly criticized by animal rights. I can't say I blame them.
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