The five geckos that were sent to space as part of an experiment to determine the effects on their sex lives have died.
Lambasted by comedians, like John Oliver, around the world, the mission was cut short by technical difficulties.
However, the deaths may have been man made. Sources at the Roscosmos space agency say the geckos may have frozen to death due to a malfunction in the heating system of the Foton-M4.
Although it may seem a little odd, the effects of long term spaceflight on different animals is important for future space missions, say to Mars. We will need to bring along livestock and other replenishable food supplies to establish any sort of colony or outpost on other worlds. So their survival in space is crucial, even if it is a bit funny.
– Ex astris, scientia –
I am and avid amateur astronomer and intellectual property attorney in Pasadena, California and I am a Rising Star as rated by Super Lawyers Magazine. As a former Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, I am a proud member of the Armed Service Committee of the Los Angeles County Bar Association working to aid all active duty and veterans in our communities. Connect with me on Google +
Norman
Astronomy and Law 