STRUCTURAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE IONIZING RADIATION IN SPACE,
Abstract
A review is made of various aspects of the ionizing radiation in space and of their implications for the structural design of manned space vehicles. In all cases the radiation problems are considered from the standpoint of the structural design engineer in an effort to provide guidance toward possible approaches to the structural design problems. One of the most important problems is shown to be the protection of the human beings inside the vehicles from the energetic protons encountered either in the inner Van Allen radiation belt or sporadically from solar flares at any altitude above 100,000 feet within the solar system. An introduction is made to the design principles involved in both active (electrostatic and electromagnetic) and passive ((composite materials) shielding. The conclusion is reached that the protection of the occupants from the hazards of ionizing radiation may require far more weight than any other structural requirement for manned space stations. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 30, 1959
- Accession Number
- AD0606005
Entities
People
- Norris F. Dow
Organizations
- General Electric