The 19-centimeter toy — created by Czech animator Zdenek Miler - had been chosen to accompany United States astronaut Andrew Feustel on Endeavour's last mission as NASA ended its shuttle program. Feustel's wife, Indira, is of Czech origin. Feustle arrived in Prague Friday carrying the toy, known locally as "Krtek."

He said the mole enjoyed the flight, but was not allowed to space walk because he didn't have a proper suit. Feustle will visit the mole's creator, who turned 90 in February, during a tour of the country at the invitation of the Academy of Sciences.