2 thoughts on “The challenges of space radiation”

  1. Hi Clark,

    Just thought I’d let you know that I posted the following comment on the Living in Space blog in relation to the article in question…

    An excellent article and quite factual. However, as an astrophysicist, I can state that there is one particular radiation threat that does have catastrophic potential and that is a badly timed and unfortunately directed CME (Coronal Mass Ejection) from the Sun. Fortunately Apollo took place during a time of relative solar quiescence. Thus, if we are to ever go back to the Moon on a continual basis or if we are to go on extensive interplanetary flights, robust radiation protection will be a must. This issue has been addressed in the design of NASA’s proposed NAUTILUS-X deep spacecraft by using the crew’s water supply as radiation shielding in a special refuge the crew would go to when such events occur.

  2. Hi Rick,
    Good points all. I think any sensible lunar project should make an early rad shelter a top priority. Perhaps a precursor robot mission will involve landing, say, a Bigelow habitat and then covering it with regolith before any astronauts even arrive.
    – Clark

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