Mice in Space

Supported by NASA, top universities,
industry and private donors, the Mars Gravity Biosatellite
is an unprecedented independent spaceflight platform for
gravitational biology research. With a projected first
launch after 2010, the Earth-orbiting satellite will support
a cohort of 15 mice for up to five weeks. During this time,
the spacecraft will rotate to generate Mars-equivalent
artificial gravity, equal to 38% of that on Earth. Reentry
capability will permit the return of live animals to the
Earth's surface at the end of the study. The proposed first
mission will explore the physiological impacts on mice of
Mars-level gravity. This book, authored by a former MIT team
lead for the project, provides a true insider's perspective
on the design and validation of the Payload Module -
including the advanced life support system and the
widely-praised next-generation mouse habitats. The book
features a scientific validation of the mission, with
results from the first ever in-centrifuge use of video-based
mouse behavioural analytics. With stunning illustrations and
outstandingly clear descriptions throughout, this title will
appeal to the general reader and aerospace professional alike.