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Updated: Jul 6, 2025
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Coherence between Brain Cortical Function and Neurocognitive Performance during Changed Gravity Conditions
Published on: May 23, 2011
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More May Not be Better: Enhanced Spacecraft Shielding May Exacerbate Cognitive Decrements by Increasing Pion
Marie-Catherine Vozenin1, Yasaman Alaghband2, Olivia G G Drayson2
1Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
Radiation Research
|January 3, 2024
Summary
Deep space radiation, particularly secondary pions, can cause long-lasting cognitive impairments in astronauts. Optimizing spacecraft shielding is crucial for mitigating these risks during space travel.
Area of Science:
- Space radiation physics
- Astrobiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Deep space radiation poses significant risks to astronaut health.
- Spacecraft shielding, while protective, can generate harmful secondary particles like pions.
- Understanding the biological impact of these secondary particles is critical for mission safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of secondary pions on central nervous system functionality.
- To evaluate the role of pion radiation in astronaut cognitive health.
- To assess the effectiveness of current shielding strategies against pion-induced effects.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of biological models to low doses of 150 MeV positive and negative pions.
- Assessment of cognitive function following radiation exposure.
- Analysis of dose-response relationships for pion radiation.
Main Results:
- Low-dose exposure to pions resulted in significant and long-lasting cognitive impairments.
- Secondary pions can constitute up to 10% of the total absorbed dose in thicker shielded regions.
- The findings challenge assumptions about the safety of certain shielding configurations.
Conclusions:
- Secondary pions represent a previously underestimated threat to astronaut cognitive function.
- Current spacecraft shielding may not adequately protect against pion-induced neurological damage.
- Further research and re-evaluation of shielding designs are necessary for safe deep space exploration.
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