The Impact of Space Radiation on Astronaut Health and Spacecraft Materials
Keywords:
Space Radiation, Neurodegeneration, Predictive Modeling, Astronaut Health ProtectionAbstract
Space radiation poses one of the greatest challenges to human space exploration and spacecraft longevity. Unlike radiation on Earth, which is largely shielded by the atmosphere and magnetosphere, space radiation consists of highly energetic particles from the Sun, cosmic rays, and trapped radiation belts. These radiation sources can have severe biological effects on astronauts, leading to acute radiation sickness, increased cancer risks, DNA damage, and potential neurological disorders such as cognitive decline and neurodegeneration. The cumulative exposure to ionizing radiation also threatens reproductive health, immune function, and cardiovascular integrity, complicating long-duration missions beyond low Earth orbit (LEO).
Additionally, radiation-induced degradation of spacecraft materials can compromise structural integrity, weaken shielding efficiency, and accelerate wear on critical electronic components, posing risks to mission reliability. Various radiation shielding techniques, including passive and active shielding, novel material development, and magnetic field-based deflection systems, are being explored to mitigate these effects. Advances in medical countermeasures, predictive modeling, and real-time monitoring are also crucial for astronaut health protection.
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