Mice in Space: The Story of the Mars Gravity Biosatellite

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.