Since the early days of flight, animals have helped researchers learn how to survive in the sky, and their role continues as humanity voyages into outer space. In 1783, a rooster, a duck, and a sheep were placed in a basket attached to the first hot-air balloon. In the age of rockets and space travel, many more animals have traveled into orbit, and most have returned safely to earth.

This book tells the stories of 50 trips into space, and the animals and the scientists involved. An appealing introduction to space exploration, this book encourages young readers to engage in real science.