In October 1963, a small, black-and-white stray cat plucked from the streets of Paris embarked on a mission into space, taking her to a place where no feline had gone before—or since. Félicette was chosen from a group of 14 cats—all female since they were thought to have a calmer demeanor that would be better suited to the claustrophobic confines of a spaceship—and underwent extensive training and tests. 

For months, the cat-stronaut candidates endured grueling training, including confinement in small containers and withstanding hours in a restraint cloth. Like human astronauts, the cats were also subjected to dizzying spins in a multi-G centrifuge to test their resilience at lift-off and re-entry. However, only one feline out of the cosmic litter would be sent to space, a cat known only by her 4-digit code—chosen so the scientists wouldn’t become attached—C 314, or, as we know her today, Félicette. 

Félicette’s brief 15-minute suborbital flight, launched by the French government as part of their space exploration program, was designed to study the effects of space travel on living organisms. During the mission, electrodes implanted in Félicette’s brain monitored her neural responses, providing scientists with invaluable data on how the body reacts to the conditions of space, such as weightlessness and intense pressure changes. 

Unlike many animals sent into space before her, most of whom did not survive, Félicette’s capsule successfully returned to Earth, and she emerged from her journey unharmed, though visibly shaken—a feat that was celebrated as a significant scientific victory. The mission was a resounding success, and all of France cheered for the cat, now a national treasure. The name C 314 wasn’t fitting for a hero, so the French media quickly named her Félix, after the cartoon character, which was then changed to the feminine Félicette.

Her safe return demonstrated that it was possible for life to survive space travel and re-entry, offering a crucial step toward preparing humans for longer, more complex space missions.

However, Félicette’s story didn’t end there. Despite her successful return, she was euthanized shortly after the mission so scientists could study her body more closely. Her sacrifice added a bittersweet note to her historic achievement. While Félicette’s flight advanced space science, her fate underscores the moral complexities of using animals in research. She had no choice in the journey that made her famous, and her life was ultimately cut short for the sake of science.

Chosen by science, not by will

Félicette's mission is often celebrated as a significant milestone in space exploration, but it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by animals in the name of science. Unlike human astronauts who willingly accept the risks and challenges of space travel, Félicette had no say in the matter. Taken from the streets of Paris, she became a subject in a series of experiments, chosen for her size, weight, and demeanor— factors beyond her control.  

Beneath the surface of this remarkable achievement lies the troubling reality that animals like Félicette are often seen as tools for scientific discovery, rather than sentient beings with their own rights. The ethics of animal testing, especially in the context of space research, raise difficult questions.  

Félicette’s journey, much like Laika's before her, sheds light on the moral complexities involved in advancing human knowledge at the expense of another species' well-being. While their contributions undeniably paved the way for modern space exploration, they were not volunteers—they had no voice, no choice, and ultimately no control over their fates. As we celebrate these historic advancements in science, we must also reflect on the balance between scientific progress and ethical responsibility and remember the unspoken sacrifices of the animals who helped us reach the stars. 

Rethinking animal research with compassion

Félicette’s mission was a huge step forward in space exploration, but it also makes us pause and think about how we treat animals in research. While her journey gave scientists crucial data, it’s important to ask: is it fair to put animals in situations like this, where they don’t have a choice and may suffer? 

Thankfully, today there’s more focus on treating animals with care and respect in scientific research. Many are working to find alternatives to using animals whenever possible, and when animals are involved, ensuring their well-being is a priority. From improving how animals are cared for to developing new technologies that don’t require animal testing, there’s a growing effort to be more compassionate. 

Félicette’s story challenges us to remember the sacrifices animals have made in the name of science. As we continue to explore new frontiers, we should always balance scientific progress with kindness. Her journey reminds us that animals aren’t mere tools for discovery—they’re living beings who deserve our respect and consideration. 

A mission memorialized

More than 50 years after her space mission, a small bronze statue sits in International Space University, honoring the first feline to rocket into space and her contribution to science. The statue features Félicette perched on top of planet Earth and gazing up at the sky she once pierced and the stars she once danced with.

By sharing Félicette’s story, we can celebrate her role in advancing space science while also pushing for more thoughtful, humane approaches to research. Progress should always go hand in hand with compassion, and as we move forward, we must ensure that the well-being of all creatures remains a priority.

Annie Turner is a senior brand writer for Figo Pet Insurance. Based out of Columbus, Ohio, she loves synonyms, enjoys painting rocks for her kids to hide in their garden of towering sunflowers, and rocks a mean messy bun.