Yes, as research. I think they wanted to find out if a body can withstand high accelerations, like on an astronaut's body during launch. They sedate the pig to make sure that it won't die from stress. It may look odd, but it's not crazy.
Are you having a go at the pig pics? Do you feel the same way about them as I do yours? That would be better, but...
Sorry if I seem to be lacking a sense of humour! My 2 posts in this thread have been attacking unfunny posts. I'll post some humourous things tomorrow, I promise!