Challenges with Spacecraft Design to Deal with Ionizing Irradiation: Solar Proton Events, Galactic Cosmic Irradiation, and Neutron Irradiation from Interaction with Components of the Spacecraft

Information that has been gained from the analysis of radiation levels on the lunar and Martian surface has focused new research efforts in Materials Science and Physics with respect to spacecraft design, spacesuit design, and the development of methods to physically limit radiation exposure of astronauts. A major concern is the requirement that each form of space irradiation (X-rays, protons, Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR), and neutrons) requires a different approach to its attenuation. X-rays can be attenuated by high molecular weight materials, such as lead, which is heavy. In contrast, a reduction in the levels of galactic cosmic irradiation and protons will require different materials to minimize penetration through the spacecraft to the bodies of astronauts. Neutrons are generated by GCR also hitting the spacecraft. Transport of materials from the Earth’s surface to a space station for the assembly of a spacecraft for the Mars Mission and travel for longer distances must address the issue of the weight of the materials and the likelihood that the weight of materials will attenuate each form of radiation. The research in the area of radiation shielding interfaces between the disciplines of Material Sciences/Physics will also involve the biology of exposure to humans of each form of ineffectively shielded ionizing irradiation.