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Russia‘s Upcoming Space Mission Reignites Ethical Debate Over Animal Testing
Moscow, Russia – As Russia prepares to launch its Bion-M No.2 biosatellite from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan this week,carrying 75 mice and 1,500 fruit flies,a familiar debate is resurfacing: the ethics of using animals in space research. While Russia emphasizes its continued investment in space medicine, animal welfare advocates are raising serious concerns about the treatment of these creatures in the pursuit of scientific advancement.
A History of Animal Pioneers in Space
the use of animals in space exploration dates back to the dawn of the Space Age. In 1957, the Soviet Union launched Laika, a stray dog, aboard Sputnik 2, marking the first time a living creature entered orbit. This mission, while groundbreaking, was tragically flawed. Laika endured cramped, stressful conditions and ultimately died from oxygen deprivation, highlighting the harsh realities of early space travel.
The United States followed suit in 1961 with Ham,a chimpanzee,sent on a suborbital flight to assess task performance in space. Ham faced invasive monitoring, electric shocks for incorrect responses, and severe dehydration. While he physically recovered, he exhibited signs of psychological trauma post-mission.
The Ongoing Ethical Concerns
Despite advancements in technology, animal casualties continue to occur. In 2019, Israel’s Beresheet spacecraft crash-landed on the Moon, carrying thousands of tardigrades (also known as water bears).Their fate remains unknown. Moreover, animals used in these missions frequently enough lack guaranteed post-mission care. France’s Félicette, a cat who orbited Earth in 1963, was euthanized after the mission for brain study, despite successfully returning.
Unlike working military animals, which often receive transition programs into civilian life, space animals are often left with ambiguous legal status and limited protections. This gap in legal frameworks stems from a lack of consideration for animal welfare within international space law.
Recent Incidents and Calls for Change
Recent events underscore the need for greater oversight. The fate of animals aboard the failed Russian Luna-25 mission in August 2023 remains largely unaddressed.
The Path Forward: Recognizing Animal Sentience
Animal welfare organizations, such as PETA, are actively advocating for reforms. There is a growing call for international regulations that formally recognize the sentience of animals in outer space law and prioritize their welfare before, during, and after missions.
The question remains: as we continue to push the boundaries of space exploration,can we do so ethically and responsibly,ensuring the well-being of all living creatures involved?
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