Top 10 Strange Objects Sent into Space

Lego Figurines
On Aug. 5, NASA launched the Juno probe, which, when it reaches Jupiter in 2016, will orbit the planet for one earth year studying its atmosphere before crashing into the surface. Aboard the spacecraft are three Lego figurines: one of the king of the Roman gods for whom the planet is named, right; one of his wife Juno, center, with a magnifying glass; and one of astronomer Galileo Galilei, left, holding both a telescope and a miniature planet Jupiter. The placement of the objects is part of a partnership between NASA and the LEGO group to inspire children to explore science and technology.

• Animals in Space