As the Artemis II mission, which will send four astronauts to orbit the moon, approaches, scientists have released new findings regarding the Orion spacecraft’s effectiveness in protecting its crew from space radiation. These insights are based on the data gathered from the 25-day Artemis I mission in late 2022.
The uncrewed Artemis I mission carried sophisticated mannequins designed to simulate human tissues and organs. These mannequins were equipped with detectors to accurately measure radiation exposure during the journey, providing vital information for future manned missions.
NASA has a long history of examining the effects of space radiation on human health, tracing back to the crewed missions of the 1960s. Continuous data collection is conducted with astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS). However, the ISS benefits from Earth’s magnetic field and heavy shielding, which are not available in deep space.
The variations in radiation exposure recorded by the sensors within the Orion spacecraft depended significantly on their location, highlighting the importance of effective shielding.
The increase in solar activity as the sun approaches its solar maximum underscores the importance of such protective measures. These outbursts can significantly impact spacecraft and even power grids on Earth.
The mission also noted a 60% reduction in cosmic ray exposure compared to previous missions, including those to Mars. This reduction in radiation exposure is crucial for the safety of long-duration spaceflights.
The Artemis II crew has been training intensively, preparing for their mission. This includes fieldwork in moon-like environments on Earth to enhance their observational and operational skills.
The advancements in spacecraft design and crew training ensure that Artemis II will build on the successes of Artemis I, paving the way for further manned exploration of the moon.
These insights are vital as NASA continues its preparations for Artemis III, which aims to land astronauts, including a woman and a person of colour, on the lunar south pole.
The findings from the Artemis I mission have provided critical insights into radiation exposure and the effectiveness of protective measures in space. These advancements are pivotal for the safety of future manned missions.
As preparations for Artemis II continue, the lessons learned from Artemis I will significantly influence the mission’s approach to radiation protection, ensuring that astronauts can safely explore the moon and beyond.
