This habitat box was used twice for student experiments aboard the Space Shuttle. It housed 3300 honeybees on the STS 41-C mission in 1984 and numerous houseflies on the STS 51-D mission in 1985. Many researchers are interested in animals' adaptation to microgravity (weightlessness) as they carry out flying, honeycomb building, and other normal activities in the unique environment of space. NASA has encouraged student involvement in space research by flying such experiments on orbital missions. Honeywell sponsored these experiments and donated this equipment to the Museum after the flights.
Display Status
This object is on display in Space Science at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Miscellaneous
Manufacturer
Honeywell Inc., Space & Strategic Avionics Division
Dimensions
3-D: 45.7 x 12.1 x 48.3cm (18 x 4 3/4 x 19 in.)
Materials
metal, plastic, wood, paper
Inventory Number
A19880031000
Credit Line
Gift of Honeywell Inc.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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