Moscow: Russia Successfully Completes Bion-M No. 2 Biological Satellite Mission

Russia has successfully completed the Bion-M No. 2 biological satellite mission, with a majority of the test animals safely returning to Earth. Of the 75 mice sent into orbit for biomedical experiments, 65 survived, while 10 died during the mission, according to officials from the Russian Academy of Sciences.

The spacecraft landed smoothly in Orenburg, officials confirmed. While researchers encountered certain concerns during the mission, these were described as “routine challenges” that can occur in such experiments, said Oleg Orlov, Director of the State Scientific Center – Institute of Biomedical Problems (IBMP).

The mission was designed to study the biological resilience of mammals during extended space travel. To achieve this, the mice were divided into multiple groups: some were genetically predisposed to resist conditions such as radiation, while others were administered medicines and treatments to counter radiation-related health risks. Additionally, dietary patterns were varied to further diversify experimental conditions.

Experts note that such experiments are critical to understanding how long-duration spaceflight affects mammalian physiology and to developing strategies for protecting astronauts from cosmic radiation and other environmental risks.

Commenting on the deaths, Orlov said the loss of 10 mice was “within acceptable limits” for a mission of this nature. Investigations suggest the fatalities were likely caused by intraspecies aggression among the mice, rather than environmental or technical failures. Importantly, the data gathered from the deceased animals will also contribute to the broader research effort.

Comprehensive analysis of the mission’s findings will now continue at laboratories in Moscow.