Has an animal ever been in outer space?

Since the 18th century, animals have been used for tests aboard balloons and aircraft. In 1783, a sheep, duck and rooster were sent up in the newly invented hot-air balloon. The balloon flew for 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) and landed safely. read more

Despite losses, these animals have taught the scientists a tremendous amount more than could have been learned without them. Without animal testing in the early days of the human space program, the Soviet and American programs could have suffered great losses of human life. read more

The Spacelab missions in the Space Shuttle have done experiments with various insects and worms in space. Today, the ISS is performing research with zebra fish and mice, to study embryological development and muscle loss in zero gravity. read more

A wide variety of non-human animals have been launched into space, including monkeys, dogs, tortoises, and insects. The United States launched flights containing monkeys and primates primarily between 1948-1961 with one flight in 1969 and one in 1985. read more