RADIATION SHIELDING FOR MANNED SPACE FLIGHT
Abstract
Cosmic radiation, solar flares, the Earth's Van Allen belts, and nuclear radiation are assessed. For the Mars mission, cosmic and solar-flare radiations may require biological-shield weights of 100,000 lb. Shield needs for the nuclear reactor and the Van Allen belts are an order of magnitude less than this except for slow traversal of the Earth's radiation belts. Much weight can be saved if a common mass can be utilized against all radiation hazards. For early space experiments, major solar flares probably constitute the prime radiation hazard. A partial body shield may possibly be designed with adequate radiation protection for 100 lb per man. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0259500
Entities
People
- Harold R. Kaufman
- Lewis E. Wallner
Organizations
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration