Galactic Cosmic Radiation and Manned Space Flight
ResearchPublished 1961
A discussion of the radiation hazard to an astronaut due to high-energy cosmic particles of galactic origin. The significant factor is that these particles can and will kill a relatively small number of body cells. Nerve cells, once lost, do not replace themselves; thus continuous exposure to primary cosmic particles results in a gradual loss of cells from the central nervous system. On the basis of present knowledge, it appears that the loss rate of nerve cells will be slow enough so that space voyages of a few months duration can be contemplated with reasonable assurance that an astronaut will not suffer measurable damage from primary cosmic particles. Experimental measurements are needed, however, to permit more quantitative evaluations. (See also RM-2825.) 35 pp.
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Document Details
- Copyright: RAND Corporation
- Availability: Web Only
- Year: 1962
- Pages: 35
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.7249/RM3043
- Document Number: RM-3043-PR
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