Abstract
As the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) plans for prolonged missions to low-Earth orbit (LEO), the Moon, Mars, and deep space, astronauts are exposed to various hazards, including the harmful effects of an altered gravity environment (microgravity), biologically hostile environment of enclosed spacecraft, limited medical treatment availability due to distance from Earth, and space radiation. Space radiation exposure is a major concern for long-duration space travel and is associated with four main categories of human health risks: radiation carcinogenesis; degenerative tissue effects, including cardiovascular disease, cataracts, and diseases associated with premature aging; central nervous system effects that may manifest in-flight or postmission; and risk of acute radiation syndrome associated with an unshielded solar particle event. To mitigate the risks associated with space radiation exposure, NASA employs strategies such as limiting time in space, optimum mission planning, medical countermeasures—such as physical activity and potential prophylactic use of United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs—radiation risk projection models, and passive shielding. Space radiation exposure remains a difficult challenge to overcome because typical shielding in spacecraft is not effective at preventing heavy charged ions in the space environment, known as galactic cosmic rays, from penetrating deeply into the vehicle and crew members causing damage to tissue and cells that is unique to the space environment. This chapter provides a description of the different types and sources of radiation found in the space environment along with a summary of the associated health risks.
Published Version
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