Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology What was the first animal to be sent to space? Rat Dog Monkey Fruit Flies Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself D Correct answer Explanation Fruit flies were the first animals sent to space aboard a U.S. V-2 rocket in 1947. They were chosen because they are small, reproduce quickly, and are biologically similar to humans in many ways. Laika (a dog) followed in 1957.