The experiment will give scientists a better understanding of how man's vestibular apparatus operates under zero-gravity, as there is no fundamental difference between the human organs of balance and those of other living beings. The idea behind the project is to identify the causes for the movement disorder that people develop in outer space.
ISS-based scientific experiments planned for this spring will involve tritons, crawfish and planaria worms. Planaria, for instance, are to take part in a study of the regeneration process. It is common knowledge that if a worm is cut into pieces, each will develop into an individual within days. At least, this is how it works on Earth. But whether this is the case under zero-gravity, as well, yet remains to be seen.
The Russian orbital station Mir was used as a laboratory for quite a few experiments involving living beings. Regenerative and locomotive functions, for instance, were explored with the help of tritons.
Scientists are now planning a series of experiments with Cuban blue crawfish to study gravity receptors.
Along with scientific value, such experiments are expected to provide psychological support for crews who have to work on the ISS for protracted periods of time. Some of them have admitted that even the growing of peas makes it easier for them to endure their isolation.
