The Economic Times

In 1998, NASA sent oyster toadfish into space on Space Shuttle Columbia; over 16 days in orbit, researchers studied how their balance systems adapted to microgravity

In 1998, saltwater toadfish participated in the Columbia's Neurolab mission, offering insights into the effects of microgravity on the nervous system. Their inner ear adaptations revealed how their vestibular system modified its sensitivity in the absence of gravity. Upon returning to Earth, the adjustments mirrored the disorientation experienced by astronauts, further enhancing our understanding of balance and safety in space exploration.