Space Paws: Starbound

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Did you know that humans were not the first Earth species to go to space? Scientists weren’t too sure about how well humans would handle the weightlessness of space, so these brave animals were the first to test it out! Let’s learn about a few of these heroic animals by taking a journey through space!

The First Space Orbitor: Laika the Dog

In 1957, Laika, a little dog from Russia, became the first animal to orbit Earth! She flew on a spacecraft called Sputnik 2. Laika didn’t stay in space for long, but she helped scientists understand that living beings could survive the journey to space. Even though she was the first, Laika wasn’t the only animal to make the trip.

The First Monkey: Albert I

Before humans went to space, monkeys were sent to learn about space travel. Albert I was the first monkey to go on a space mission in 1948. He flew in a rocket but sadly didn’t survive the flight. His mission helped scientists learn more about the dangers of space and what animals needed to be safe.

The Space Mice

In the 1950s and 60s, mice were often sent to space because of their small size and toughness. They traveled in rockets so scientists could study how weightlessness affects living creatures. Mice were great astronauts because they could stay healthy, and they didn’t need a lot of food. Their tiny adventures helped humans further prepare for space missions.

The Tortoises on the Moon

Did you know that tortoises were some of the first Earth creatures to travel around the Moon? In 1968, Soviet astronauts sent tortoises to a spacecraft that orbited the Moon. The tortoises were not only brave but also really good at handling the uncomfortable journey. They made it back safely, showing scientists that landing on the Moon might be possible for humans one day!

The Space Cats: Félicette

Félicette was a cat from France who made history in 1963. She was the first and only cat to travel into space! Félicette’s mission helped scientists learn about how space affects living creatures. After her trip, Félicette returned safely to Earth, and she became a symbol of the bravery of all of the animals that went to space.

Thanks to these courageous animals, we’ve learned a lot about space. They helped make it possible for astronauts to walk on the Moon, build space stations, and even explore distant planets. Next time you look up at the stars, remember that animals were some of the very first pioneers of space travel! If you enjoyed this week’s story, or have an idea for next week, feel free to reach out using our contact forms!