More Radiation for Space Monkeys

by Stephanie Feldstein · 2010-01-29 08:00:00 UTC
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It's not the first time monkeys have been exposed to radiation. So many studies have documented the painful and disturbing effects of exposure, that there's no reason for further animal research. But NASA doesn't see it that way.

The Humane Society of the United States reported earlier this week that NASA is standing by its $1.75 million research budget to expose male squirrel monkeys to high doses of radiation. The space program claims they need to know how humans in space might react to long-term exposure to low levels of radiation.

There are obvious flaws to this research: 1) High doses of radiation are not the same as low levels of radiation. 2) Squirrel monkeys are not the same as humans. 3) The dangers of radiation are not a secret.

And, of course, the fact that animals will suffer needlessly. The double standard of animal researchers has always amazed me -- if you're expecting that the results of your tests will translate to humans, then you better believe the pain is comparable, too.

NASA needs to stop wasting taxpayer dollars and start showing some compassion if they want to stay relevant in the 21st Century.

Photo credit: Just chaos

Stephanie Feldstein is a Change.org Editor who has been part of the animal welfare and rescue community for over a decade, and most recently worked for an environmental organization.

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