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The International Space Station Is Getting an Aquarium

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By Sara Tan Jul 31st 2012

Is the International Space Station getting an aquarium to spruce up their digs? Not exactly. According to Neatorama, the aquarium's goal is not solely viewing pleasure. The new Aquatic Habitat (AQH) was added as somewhat of a science experiment. Researchers will use this facility to analyze how microgravity impacts marine life.

The industrial-looking aquarium is sponsored by the Japanese Space Agency, or JAXA. It's a closed-water circulatory system that will be used for multiple studies, including the impacts of radiation, bone degradation, muscle atrophy and development biology.

There won't be any goldfish in this aquarium. Medaka fish are the ideal specimens because they are transparent, and it is easy to see their inner workings.

Although the aquarium is primarily for scientific use, NASA hopes that the crew will gain a sense of relaxation in viewing the fish.

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