An analysis of energetic space radiation and dose rates
Energetic space radiation and galactic cosmic radiation measured for radiation hazards in manned space flight
SEARCH · Search NASA
Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.
Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.
Energetic space radiation and galactic cosmic radiation measured for radiation hazards in manned space flight
Galactic radiation hazards in passenger travel of supersonic transport
Solar cosmic ray variations and their relationship to solar physics, solar wind magnetic fields, electromagnetic radiation, and radiation hazards to manned space flights
Ionizing radiation effects on cellular and molecular level in microorganisms and mammals, discussing manned space flight radiation hazards
Portable electronic device, based on the design of an eddy current gage, detects ferrous and nonferrous metal fragments. Device is more easily transported than X-ray equipment and does not present a radiation hazard.
Laser applications in biology and medicine covering surgery, ophthalmology, microorganisms, viruses, tissue culture, tumor eradication, radiation hazards, etc
Space shuttle safety, discussing rocket engine durability, turbine life, flaw detection, radiation hazards, etc
Biological effects on man in space resulting from galactic and solar cosmic radiation are discussed. Importance of secondary ions which contribute to galactic cosmic radiation hazards is analyzed. Mathematical model to show rate of production of secondary ions of given atomic number at various points in absorber is presented.
The ionization and penetration power of various primary and secondary radiations that were present within the Gemini spacecraft was studied. This was accomplished by measurement of the contributions to dose according to profile, particle type, time, and position (location) within the spacecraft. Both active- and passive-dosimetry data collected in this experiment showed that no radiation hazard was associated with manned space operations within the Gemini spacecraft at altitudes as great as 310 kilometers in the South Atlantic anomaly region. This conclusion is warranted also by theoretical calculations.
The purpose of the package, called the high altitude radiation instrumentation system (HARIS), is to measure the radiation hazard to supersonic transport passengers from solar and galactic cosmic rays. The HARIS includes gaseous linear energy transfer spectrometer, a tissue equivalent ionization chamber, and a geiger meuller tube. The HARIS is flown on RB-57F aircraft at 60,000 feet. Data from the HARIS are reduced to give rad and rem dose rates measured by the package during the flights. Results presented include ambient data obtained on background flights, altitude comparison data, and solar flare data.
Advanced dosimetry system concepts are described that will provide automated and instantaneous measurement of dose and particle spectra. Systems are proposed for measuring dose rate from cosmic radiation background to greater than 3600 rads/hr. Charged particle spectrometers, both internal and external to the spacecraft, are described for determining mixed field energy spectra and particle fluxes for both real time onboard and ground-based computer evaluation of the radiation hazard. Automated passive dosimetry systems consisting of thermoluminescent dosimeters and activation techniques are proposed for recording the dose levels for twelve or more crew members. This system will allow automatic onboard readout and data storage of the accumulated dose and can be transmitted to ground after readout or data records recovered with each crew rotation.
Most thermionic reactors are designed to allow the fission gases to escape out of the emitter. A scheme to allow the fission gases to escape is proposed. Because of the low activity of the fission products, this method should pose no radiation hazards.
Results of theoretical and applied research related to fissioning uranium plasmas. Topics examined include uranium plasma instabilities, diagnostic techniques, radiant heat transfer characteristics, nuclear pumping of lasers, and various fission engine concepts. Engineering aspects considered for open-cycle gas core engines include effects of buoyancy on fuel containment, flow and criticality problems, effects of injection conditions, and radiation hazards. The nuclear light bulb engine, the mini-cavity reactor, the dust-bed reactor, and the colloid core reactor are also examined in terms of design and control considerations. Individual items are abstracted in this issue.
Cosmic dust may be serious radiation hazard to man and electronic equipment caught in its path. Dust detector uses two operational amplifiers and offers narrower areas for collection of cosmic dust. Detector provides excellent resolution as result of which recording of particle velocities as well as positions of their impact are more accurately determined.
In connection with programs for the exploration of the outer planets, several models have been developed and used to analyze the radiation hazard to the spacecraft. Typical components found in space flight science instruments have been tested to determine their capability to function properly before, after and, in some cases during, exposures to energy equivalenced levels predicted by the models. A summary of proton-irradiation tests is provided.
The principal directions and results of space medicine studies are reviewed, starting with the early 1950s. The effects of prolonged inaction, a gravity-free environment, and isolation on the survival and functioning of man in space are examined. Quarantine and other measures developed to guard the health of astronauts during space missions are described. Space radiation hazards and means of overcoming them are discussed. The development of exobiology as a new field of science from our increasing knowledge of the universe is noted, together with some technological and medical advances resulting from space research.
Pioneer 11, man's second spacecraft to Jupiter, is discussed. A description of the mission is given along with its projected outcome. Radiation hazards are also discussed.
In 1966-1967 measurements were performed at altitudes from 200 to 400 km to determine the fluxes and spectra of protons by means of nuclear emulsions of the BR-2 and Ya-2 types. The proton spectra within the range up to 8 BeV are presented. The spectra obtained are the basis for estimating radiation hazards.