Animals in spaceA long time ago, no one thought that we could send people into space, let alone animals. The researchers then decided to take a chance and start sending animals into orbit. From that point on, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration began conducting experiments involving animals. Scientists send animals into space to determine human responses to microgravity, monitor eating habits, and record unusual behaviors (http://www.nasa.gov/audience/Animals_in_space). Scientists decided to send animals into space to study how microgravity affects animals. , and whether this might cause strange behavior. They would test the effects of weightlessness on a mammal and discover how solar radiation affects the body. The researchers did this so that when the time comes to send humans into space, they can compare the results and reactions of the two. NASA decided to send animals into space only when necessary. The United States and the Soviets competed to see if either country could send an organism into space and return it unharmed. When choosing different animals, scientists had to ensure that they met particular requirements. NASA chose to start by selecting smaller animals such as rats and rabbits, then work their way down to dogs. All pets must receive their rabies, worm and flea vaccinations. They must also have impeccable health care, such as passing their physical exams and having no health defects. Various animals also cannot be too young; they must be fully developed. Small animals, like rats, must travel...... middle of paper..." Google Books. Praxis Publishing, July 5, 2007. Web. March 24, 2014. Cain, Fraser. "What is as the First Animal in Space?" Universe Today RSS. Np, February 13, 2009. Web. March 27, 2014. Dohrer, Elizabeth. "Laika the Dog and the First Animals in Space." Space.com. Livescience, September 25, 2012 Web. March 21, 2014. Dunbar, Brian. “Animals in Space.” NASA, May 5, 2004. Web March 22, 2014. Ghose, Jeanna Bryner and Tia. . LiveScience. TechMedia Network, January 29, 2013. Web. March 21, 2014. Gray, Tara. “Animals in Space.” NASA History Curator, August 2, 2004. Reports Sending Another Monkey into Space." The New York Times, December 14, 2013. Web March 28, 2014. Kramer, Miriam "Russia Launches Animals into Space." Network, April 19, 2013. Web March 21.. 2014.