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Radiation hazards on space missions outside the magnetosphere
J R Letaw1, R Silberberg, C H Tsao
1Severn Communications Corporation, Millersville, MD 21108.
Advances in Space Research : the Official Journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Astronauts face significant radiation risks outside Earth's magnetosphere from galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events. Utilizing low-atomic-mass shielding materials is crucial for protecting space explorers on future missions.
Area of Science:
- Space science
- Radiation biology
- Aerospace engineering
Background:
- Space missions beyond Earth's magnetosphere expose astronauts to intense radiation.
- Galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) and solar energetic particle (SEP) events pose significant health risks.
- Annual doses can reach 0.5 Sv (BFO) from GCR, with potential acute doses up to 2 Sv (BFO) from SEP events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To model radiation doses in exo-magnetospheric environments.
- To evaluate potential radiation shielding strategies for astronauts.
- To identify optimal shielding materials for deep space missions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized model calculations to simulate radiation doses.
- Calculated aluminum equivalents for various shielding materials.
- Assessed radiation exposure in diverse extra-magnetospheric scenarios.
Main Results:
- Model calculations provide estimates of radiation doses for astronauts.
- Low-atomic-mass materials show high effectiveness as shielding against GCR.
- Shielding strategies are essential for mitigating radiation risks.
Conclusions:
- Space radiation necessitates careful spacecraft design and mission planning.
- Low-atomic-mass shielding is a promising strategy for astronaut protection.
- Further research into radiation shielding is vital for long-duration space exploration.
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