Scientists were worried about the effects of prolonged weightlessness on the human body. Some experts questioned whether humans could survive extended periods without gravity. To address these ...

This week, Russia is expected to launch its Bion-M No.2 biosatellite from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, carrying 75 mice and 1,500 fruit flies. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest ...

In February 1966, the Soviet space program launched the dogs Veterok and Ugolyok to beyond the protective Van Allen Belts, which they did to study the prolonged effects of space travel and the ...

Before humanity ever rocketed past the edge of space, let alone into Earth orbit, and before man ever stepped foot on the moon, our four-legged (and sometimes legless) friends tested the ether. Plenty ...

Most living organisms break down instantly when exposed to outer space. With no oxygen, crushing radiation, and extreme temperatures, space is lethal in every way. But a few lifeforms have pushed past ...

Black-and-white photographs shared by some social media users are said to show Laika, a 13-pound stray from Moscow who became the first dog in space after being launched into low orbit aboard Sputnik ...

The Soviet Union sent its fair share of dogs to space during the formative years of the country’s space program, including Laika—the first animal ever sent to Earth orbit. Laika died during this ...