Tag

Galactic Cosmic Rays

All articles tagged with #galactic cosmic rays

science15 days ago•40 min saved

Earth’s magnetosphere casts a radiation shadow near the Moon, study finds

Scientists analyzing data from China’s Chang’e-4 lunar lander detected a localized ~20% dip in galactic cosmic rays during the Moon’s local morning, forming a radiation 'cavity' near the Moon likely carved by Earth's magnetic field. The result suggests Earth’s magnetosphere can influence space radiation beyond its immediate boundary and could help planners time surface activities to lower astronauts’ radiation exposure on future lunar missions.

via Yahoo|

#change-4 #cosmic-radiation #galactic-cosmic-rays

space-exploration2 years ago•3 min saved

"Revolutionizing Active Shielding: Innovative Ideas for Viable Protection"

Space radiation poses a significant challenge for long-duration space missions, with solar events and galactic cosmic rays presenting different threats. While passive shielding is effective against solar events, it is inadequate for protecting against high-energy cosmic rays. Active shielding, which deflects charged particles like Earth's magnetic field, is a promising solution but has been difficult to implement. Earth's natural shielding system, consisting of its magnetic field, atmosphere, and planetary mass, provides significant protection, but replicating this in space is challenging. Developing miniaturized, portable active shielding technology may be the key to protecting astronauts on future deep space missions.

via Ars Technica|

#active-shielding #galactic-cosmic-rays #magnetic-field

science-and-technology2 years ago•3 min saved

"Spaceflight's Impact on Astronauts: Exploring the Link to Erectile Dysfunction"

Male astronauts returning from deep space missions may be prone to erectile dysfunction due to the impact of galactic cosmic rays and microgravity on erectile tissues, according to a study funded by NASA. The researchers found that these factors can impair erectile tissue function, with effects potentially lasting for decades. The study highlights the need to closely monitor the sexual health of astronauts on future deep space missions and suggests that certain antioxidants may help counteract the negative effects. The findings raise concerns as space agencies prepare for long-term expeditions to the moon and Mars.

via The Guardian|

#astronauts #deep-space #erectile-dysfunction

science2 years ago•2 min saved

Kuiper Belt's Color Mystery Solved by Scientists.

Researchers from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Department of Chemistry have discovered that aromatic structures linked through unsaturated hydrocarbon chains are responsible for the color variety of hydrocarbon-rich surfaces of Kuiper Belt objects. The team replicated the environment in the Kuiper Belt to examine the color evolution and their source on the molecular level as galactic cosmic rays processed hydrocarbons, such as methane and acetylene, under Kuiper Belt-like conditions. The study provides insight into the role played by ices exposed to radiation in the early production of biological precursor molecules.

via SciTechDaily|

#astrophysics #galactic-cosmic-rays #hydrocarbons

science2 years ago•2 min saved

Cracking the Colorful Kuiper Belt Mystery

Researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa's Department of Chemistry have discovered the cause of the diverse range of colors in hydrocarbon-rich surfaces of Kuiper Belt objects, including Pluto. The team replicated the Kuiper Belt environment and used ultra-high vacuum irradiation experiments to examine the color evolution and its source on the molecular level. They found that aromatic structural units carrying up to three rings play a key role in producing reddish colors. The research provides insight into the role played by ices exposed to radiation in the early production of biological precursor molecules.

via Phys.org|

#astrophysics #galactic-cosmic-rays #hydrocarbons