Nasa has developed new rodent living quarters that
will be used to explore the effects of microgravity on rats and
mice aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The Rodent Research Facility comprises of a set of reusable
modules. A transporter module will be used to carry the rodents up
to the station on an unmanned SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Once the
craft has docked, astronauts will transfer the rodents from the
transporter into a habitat module.
Each of these will be able to
house as many as ten mice or six rats, providing water, food,
lighting and fresh air. The animals will be able to move around the
space by gripping onto grids that line the floor and walls.
The
temperature and air quality of the environment will be monitored by
sensors, while a video system will let the crew in space -- and
scientists and vets on the ground -- monitor the health of the
animals.
Friday, May 30, 2014
Space rats get sensor-packed ISS digs
2:08 AM
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