Recent progress in space weather research for cosmic radiation dosimetry

Area of Science:

• Space physics
• Astrobiology
• Radiation biology

Background:

• Space radiation comprises galactic cosmic rays, trapped particles, and solar energetic particles (SEPs).
• Accurate astronaut dose estimation is critical for mission safety.
• SEP events pose a significant, unpredictable radiation risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in space weather research relevant to cosmic radiation dosimetry.
• To highlight challenges in predicting SEP events for astronaut safety.
• To discuss the potential impact of extreme solar particle events on deep space missions.

Main Methods:

• Review of current space weather models for SEP fluence estimation.
• Analysis of cosmogenic nuclide data for historical extreme solar events.
• Assessment of astronaut radiation dose thresholds for tissue reactions and career limits.

Main Results:

• SEP event prediction remains a key challenge in space weather research.
• Historical data suggests the possibility of extreme solar particle events exceeding modern observations.
• High doses from extreme SEPs could surpass safety limits for astronauts on deep space missions.

Conclusions:

• Space weather research progress is vital for improving cosmic radiation dosimetry.
• Accurate modeling and prediction of SEPs are essential for mitigating astronaut radiation exposure.
• Understanding extreme solar events is crucial for ensuring astronaut health during long-duration space exploration.