Novel Developments in Mars Radiation Defence for Upcoming Astronauts
How will upcoming explorers of Mars shield themselves from the potentially lethal radiation in space? In a recent study that was published in The European Physical Journal Plus, a multinational team of researchers investigated various materials that can provide crucial shielding from the dangerous solar and cosmic rays that could endanger the safety of upcoming Mars explorers. This question is at the centre of the research. The results of this study may greatly advance our knowledge of the safety precautions needed for extended space trips.
The hard conditions on Mars were replicated using computer simulations used by the researchers in their study. In contrast to Earth, Mars lacks a magnetic field that protects against space radiation and has far lower surface pressures and temperatures. The scientists tested a variety of materials to see how well they might shield astronauts from radiation in this Martian environment simulation.
The results of the investigation showed that rubber, some polymers, and synthetic fibres were particularly good at shielding against radiation. Furthermore, when coupled with other materials, aluminium and Martian regolith—commonly known as Martian "soil"—may potentially function as effective radiation barriers, the researchers found. "This finding considerably enhances astronaut security, increasing the possibility of extended trips to Mars," stated Dr. Dimitra Atri, a co-author of the paper and researcher at NYU Abu Dhabi's Centre for Astrophysics and Space Science. "It bolsters the future of human space exploration and the potential establishment of human settlements on Mars, aligning with initiatives like the UAE's Mars 2117 project, which aims to build a city on Mars by the year 2117."
The timing of this research is significant since NASA and other space organisations intend to land humans on Mars in the 2030s or 2040s. In addition to accelerating the development of new technologies and exploration tactics for extended space travel, the Artemis missions to the Moon will establish the foundation for these upcoming Mars excursions. Looking ahead to the upcoming years and decades, the topic of how future Mars astronauts will shield themselves from space radiation risks still needs to be answered. Motivated by the spirit of scientific discovery, the search for solutions goes on.
As always, keep gazing up and continuing to explore science!
Sources: EurekAlert!, The European Physical Journal Plus
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