1
|
DeWitt JM, Benton ER. Secondary proton buildup in space radiation shielding. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 41:119-126. [PMID: 38670638 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The risk posed by prolonged exposure to space radiation represents a significant obstacle to long-duration human space exploration. Of the ion species present in the galactic cosmic ray spectrum, relativistic protons are the most abundant and as such are a relevant point of interest with regard to the radiation protection of space crews involved in future long-term missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. This work compared the shielding effectiveness of a number of standard and composite materials relevant to the design and development of future spacecraft or planetary surface habitats. Absorbed dose was measured using Al2O3:C optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters behind shielding targets of varying composition and depth using the 1 GeV nominal energy proton beam available at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at the Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York. Absorbed dose scored from computer simulations performed using the multi-purpose Monte Carlo radiation transport code FLUKA agrees well with measurements obtained via the shielding experiments. All shielding materials tested and modeled in this study were unable to reduce absorbed dose below that measured by the (unshielded) front detector, even after depths as large as 30 g/cm2. These results could be noteworthy given the broad range of proton energies present in the galactic cosmic ray spectrum, and the potential health and safety hazard such space radiation could represent to future human space exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J M DeWitt
- Department of Physics, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA.
| | - E R Benton
- Department of Physics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tavakol DN, Nash TR, Kim Y, He S, Fleischer S, Graney PL, Brown JA, Liberman M, Tamargo M, Harken A, Ferrando AA, Amundson S, Garty G, Azizi E, Leong KW, Brenner DJ, Vunjak-Novakovic G. Modeling and countering the effects of cosmic radiation using bioengineered human tissues. Biomaterials 2023; 301:122267. [PMID: 37633022 PMCID: PMC10528250 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Cosmic radiation is the most serious risk that will be encountered during the planned missions to the Moon and Mars. There is a compelling need to understand the effects, safety thresholds, and mechanisms of radiation damage in human tissues, in order to develop measures for radiation protection during extended space travel. As animal models fail to recapitulate the molecular changes in astronauts, engineered human tissues and "organs-on-chips" are valuable tools for studying effects of radiation in vitro. We have developed a bioengineered tissue platform for studying radiation damage in individualized settings. To demonstrate its utility, we determined the effects of radiation using engineered models of two human tissues known to be radiosensitive: engineered cardiac tissues (eCT, a target of chronic radiation damage) and engineered bone marrow (eBM, a target of acute radiation damage). We report the effects of high-dose neutrons, a proxy for simulated galactic cosmic rays, on the expression of key genes implicated in tissue responses to ionizing radiation, phenotypic and functional changes in both tissues, and proof-of-principle application of radioprotective agents. We further determined the extent of inflammatory, oxidative stress, and matrix remodeling gene expression changes, and found that these changes were associated with an early hypertrophic phenotype in eCT and myeloid skewing in eBM. We propose that individualized models of human tissues have potential to provide insights into the effects and mechanisms of radiation during deep-space missions and allow testing of radioprotective measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Trevor R Nash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Youngbin Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Siyu He
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sharon Fleischer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Pamela L Graney
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jessie A Brown
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Martin Liberman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Manuel Tamargo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Andrew Harken
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Adolfo A Ferrando
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sally Amundson
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Guy Garty
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Elham Azizi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Kam W Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - David J Brenner
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Romano V, Agresti A, Verduci R, D’Angelo G. Advances in Perovskites for Photovoltaic Applications in Space. ACS ENERGY LETTERS 2022; 7:2490-2514. [PMID: 35990414 PMCID: PMC9380018 DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.2c01099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Perovskites have emerged as promising light harvesters in photovoltaics. The resulting solar cells (i) are thin and lightweight, (ii) can be produced through solution processes, (iii) mainly use low-cost raw materials, and (iv) can be flexible. These features make perovskite solar cells intriguing as space technologies; however, the extra-terrestrial environment can easily cause the premature failure of devices. In particular, the presence of high-energy radiation is the most dangerous factor that can damage space technologies. This Review discusses the status and perspectives of perovskite photovoltaics in space applications. The main factors used to describe the space environment are introduced, and the results concerning the radiation hardness of perovskites toward protons, electrons, neutrons, and γ-rays are presented. Emphasis is given to the physicochemical processes underlying radiation damage in such materials. Finally, the potential use of perovskite solar cells in extra-terrestrial conditions is discussed by considering the effects of the space environment on the choice of the architecture and components of the devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentino Romano
- Department
of Physics, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Department
of ChiBioFarAm, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Agresti
- CHOSE
(Center for Hibrid and Organic Solar Energy), Department of Electronics
Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Rosaria Verduci
- Department
of ChiBioFarAm, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanna D’Angelo
- Department
of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences and Earth
Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
- CNR,
Institute for Chemical-Physical Processes (IPCF), 98158 Messina, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bajuri F, Bradley D, Mustafa S, Tamchek N, Ahmad Saad F, Mazlan N, Mohd Noor N. Morphology and thermoluminescence characteristics of customised Ge-doped optical fibre under Am–Be neutron source as a potential to be used for space radiation detector. Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2022.110378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
5
|
DeWitt J, Benton E. Shielding effectiveness: A weighted figure of merit for space radiation shielding. Appl Radiat Isot 2020; 161:109141. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2020.109141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
6
|
Comparative radiation measurements in the Russian segment of the International Space Station by applying passive dosimeters. RADIAT MEAS 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radmeas.2017.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
7
|
Neutron Radiation Tolerance of Two Benchmark Thiophene-Based Conjugated Polymers: the Importance of Crystallinity for Organic Avionics. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41013. [PMID: 28112195 PMCID: PMC5253652 DOI: 10.1038/srep41013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aviation and space applications can benefit significantly from lightweight organic electronics, now spanning from displays to logics, because of the vital importance of minimising payload (size and mass). It is thus crucial to assess the damage caused to such materials by cosmic rays and neutrons, which pose a variety of hazards through atomic displacements following neutron-nucleus collisions. Here we report the first study of the neutron radiation tolerance of two poly(thiophene)s-based organic semiconductors: poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl), P3HT, and the liquid-crystalline poly(2,5-bis (3-tetradecylthiophen-2-yl)thieno[3,2-b]thiophene), PBTTT. We combine spectroscopic investigations with characterisation of intrinsic charge mobility to show that PBTTT exhibits significantly higher tolerance than P3HT. We explain this in terms of a superior chemical, structural and conformational stability of PBTTT, which can be ascribed to its higher crystallinity, in turn induced by a combination of molecular design features. Our approach can be used to develop design strategies for better neutron radiation-tolerant materials, thus paving the way for organic semiconductors to enter avionics and space applications.
Collapse
|
8
|
Hanu AR, Barberiz J, Bonneville D, Byun SH, Chen L, Ciambella C, Dao E, Deshpande V, Garnett R, Hunter SD, Jhirad A, Johnston EM, Kordic M, Kurnell M, Lopera L, McFadden M, Melnichuk A, Nguyen J, Otto A, Scott R, Wagner DL, Wiendels M. NEUDOSE: A CubeSat Mission for Dosimetry of Charged Particles and Neutrons in Low-Earth Orbit. Radiat Res 2016; 187:42-49. [PMID: 28001909 DOI: 10.1667/rr14491.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
During space missions, astronauts are exposed to a stream of energetic and highly ionizing radiation particles that can suppress immune system function, increase cancer risks and even induce acute radiation syndrome if the exposure is large enough. As human exploration goals shift from missions in low-Earth orbit (LEO) to long-duration interplanetary missions, radiation protection remains one of the key technological issues that must be resolved. In this work, we introduce the NEUtron DOSimetry & Exploration (NEUDOSE) CubeSat mission, which will provide new measurements of dose and space radiation quality factors to improve the accuracy of cancer risk projections for current and future space missions. The primary objective of the NEUDOSE CubeSat is to map the in situ lineal energy spectra produced by charged particles and neutrons in LEO where most of the preparatory activities for future interplanetary missions are currently taking place. To perform these measurements, the NEUDOSE CubeSat is equipped with the Charged & Neutral Particle Tissue Equivalent Proportional Counter (CNP-TEPC), an advanced radiation monitoring instrument that uses active coincidence techniques to separate the interactions of charged particles and neutrons in real time. The NEUDOSE CubeSat, currently under development at McMaster University, provides a modern approach to test the CNP-TEPC instrument directly in the unique environment of outer space while simultaneously collecting new georeferenced lineal energy spectra of the radiation environment in LEO.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A R Hanu
- a NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
| | - J Barberiz
- Department of bElectrical and Computer Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - D Bonneville
- c Department of Engineering Physics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - S H Byun
- d Department of Medical Physics and Applied Radiation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - L Chen
- c Department of Engineering Physics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - C Ciambella
- f Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - E Dao
- d Department of Medical Physics and Applied Radiation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - V Deshpande
- e Department of Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - R Garnett
- d Department of Medical Physics and Applied Radiation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - S D Hunter
- a NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
| | - A Jhirad
- Department of bElectrical and Computer Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - E M Johnston
- d Department of Medical Physics and Applied Radiation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - M Kordic
- Department of bElectrical and Computer Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - M Kurnell
- c Department of Engineering Physics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - L Lopera
- f Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - M McFadden
- d Department of Medical Physics and Applied Radiation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - A Melnichuk
- Department of bElectrical and Computer Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - J Nguyen
- Department of bElectrical and Computer Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - A Otto
- e Department of Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - R Scott
- e Department of Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - D L Wagner
- c Department of Engineering Physics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - M Wiendels
- Department of bElectrical and Computer Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pani G, Verslegers M, Quintens R, Samari N, de Saint-Georges L, van Oostveldt P, Baatout S, Benotmane MA. Combined Exposure to Simulated Microgravity and Acute or Chronic Radiation Reduces Neuronal Network Integrity and Survival. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155260. [PMID: 27203085 PMCID: PMC4874625 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
During orbital or interplanetary space flights, astronauts are exposed to cosmic radiations and microgravity. However, most earth-based studies on the potential health risks of space conditions have investigated the effects of these two conditions separately. This study aimed at assessing the combined effect of radiation exposure and microgravity on neuronal morphology and survival in vitro. In particular, we investigated the effects of simulated microgravity after acute (X-rays) or during chronic (Californium-252) exposure to ionizing radiation using mouse mature neuron cultures. Acute exposure to low (0.1 Gy) doses of X-rays caused a delay in neurite outgrowth and a reduction in soma size, while only the high dose impaired neuronal survival. Of interest, the strongest effect on neuronal morphology and survival was evident in cells exposed to microgravity and in particular in cells exposed to both microgravity and radiation. Removal of neurons from simulated microgravity for a period of 24 h was not sufficient to recover neurite length, whereas the soma size showed a clear re-adaptation to normal ground conditions. Genome-wide gene expression analysis confirmed a modulation of genes involved in neurite extension, cell survival and synaptic communication, suggesting that these changes might be responsible for the observed morphological effects. In general, the observed synergistic changes in neuronal network integrity and cell survival induced by simulated space conditions might help to better evaluate the astronaut's health risks and underline the importance of investigating the central nervous system and long-term cognition during and after a space flight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Pani
- Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium
- Cell Systems and Imaging Research Group (CSI), Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Applied Nutrition, Department of Pharmacology and Bio-molecular Sciences (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Mieke Verslegers
- Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium
| | - Roel Quintens
- Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium
| | - Nada Samari
- Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium
| | - Louis de Saint-Georges
- Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium
| | - Patrick van Oostveldt
- Cell Systems and Imaging Research Group (CSI), Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium
- Cell Systems and Imaging Research Group (CSI), Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mohammed Abderrafi Benotmane
- Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Smith MB, Khulapko S, Andrews HR, Arkhangelsky V, Ing H, Koslowksy MR, Lewis BJ, Machrafi R, Nikolaev I, Shurshakov V. Bubble-detector measurements of neutron radiation in the international space station: ISS-34 to ISS-37. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2016; 168:154-166. [PMID: 25899609 PMCID: PMC4884878 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncv181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Bubble detectors have been used to characterise the neutron dose and energy spectrum in several modules of the International Space Station (ISS) as part of an ongoing radiation survey. A series of experiments was performed during the ISS-34, ISS-35, ISS-36 and ISS-37 missions between December 2012 and October 2013. The Radi-N2 experiment, a repeat of the 2009 Radi-N investigation, included measurements in four modules of the US orbital segment: Columbus, the Japanese experiment module, the US laboratory and Node 2. The Radi-N2 dose and spectral measurements are not significantly different from the Radi-N results collected in the same ISS locations, despite the large difference in solar activity between 2009 and 2013. Parallel experiments using a second set of detectors in the Russian segment of the ISS included the first characterisation of the neutron spectrum inside the tissue-equivalent Matroshka-R phantom. These data suggest that the dose inside the phantom is ∼70% of the dose at its surface, while the spectrum inside the phantom contains a larger fraction of high-energy neutrons than the spectrum outside the phantom. The phantom results are supported by Monte Carlo simulations that provide good agreement with the empirical data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M B Smith
- Bubble Technology Industries, PO Box 100, Chalk River, ON, Canada K0J 1J0
| | - S Khulapko
- Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, 76A Khoroshevskoe sh., Moscow 123007, Russia RSC-Energia, 4A Lenin str., Korolev, Moscow Region 141070, Russia
| | - H R Andrews
- Bubble Technology Industries, PO Box 100, Chalk River, ON, Canada K0J 1J0
| | - V Arkhangelsky
- Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, 76A Khoroshevskoe sh., Moscow 123007, Russia
| | - H Ing
- Bubble Technology Industries, PO Box 100, Chalk River, ON, Canada K0J 1J0
| | - M R Koslowksy
- Bubble Technology Industries, PO Box 100, Chalk River, ON, Canada K0J 1J0
| | - B J Lewis
- Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON, Canada L1H 7K4
| | - R Machrafi
- Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON, Canada L1H 7K4
| | - I Nikolaev
- RSC-Energia, 4A Lenin str., Korolev, Moscow Region 141070, Russia
| | - V Shurshakov
- Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, 76A Khoroshevskoe sh., Moscow 123007, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Smith MB, Khulapko S, Andrews HR, Arkhangelsky V, Ing H, Lewis BJ, Machrafi R, Nikolaev I, Shurshakov V. Bubble-detector measurements in the Russian segment of the International Space Station during 2009-12. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2015; 163:1-13. [PMID: 24714114 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncu053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Measurements using bubble detectors have been performed in order to characterise the neutron dose and energy spectrum in the Russian segment of the International Space Station (ISS). Experiments using bubble dosemeters and a bubble-detector spectrometer, a set of six detectors with different energy thresholds that is used to determine the neutron spectrum, were performed during the ISS-22 (2009) to ISS-33 (2012) missions. The spectrometric measurements are in good agreement with earlier data, exhibiting expected features of the neutron energy spectrum in space. Experiments using a hydrogenous radiation shield show that the neutron dose can be reduced by shielding, with a reduction similar to that determined in earlier measurements using bubble detectors. The bubble-detector data are compared with measurements performed on the ISS using other instruments and are correlated with potential influencing factors such as the ISS altitude and the solar activity. Surprisingly, these influences do not seem to have a strong effect on the neutron dose or energy spectrum inside the ISS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M B Smith
- Bubble Technology Industries, PO Box 100, Chalk River, ON, Canada K0J 1J0
| | - S Khulapko
- State Scientific Centre, Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, 76A Khoroshevskoe Sh., 123007 Moscow, Russia RSC-Energia, 4A Lenin Str., 141070 Korolev, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - H R Andrews
- Bubble Technology Industries, PO Box 100, Chalk River, ON, Canada K0J 1J0
| | - V Arkhangelsky
- State Scientific Centre, Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, 76A Khoroshevskoe Sh., 123007 Moscow, Russia
| | - H Ing
- Bubble Technology Industries, PO Box 100, Chalk River, ON, Canada K0J 1J0
| | - B J Lewis
- Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON, Canada L1H 7K4
| | - R Machrafi
- Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON, Canada L1H 7K4
| | - I Nikolaev
- RSC-Energia, 4A Lenin Str., 141070 Korolev, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - V Shurshakov
- State Scientific Centre, Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, 76A Khoroshevskoe Sh., 123007 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wilson JW, Slaba TC, Badavi FF, Reddell BD, Bahadori AA. 3DHZETRN: Shielded ICRU spherical phantom. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2015; 4:46-61. [PMID: 26177620 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2015.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A computationally efficient 3DHZETRN code capable of simulating High (H) Charge (Z) and Energy (HZE) and light ions (including neutrons) under space-like boundary conditions with enhanced neutron and light ion propagation was recently developed for a simple homogeneous shield object. Monte Carlo benchmarks were used to verify the methodology in slab and spherical geometry, and the 3D corrections were shown to provide significant improvement over the straight-ahead approximation in some cases. In the present report, the new algorithms with well-defined convergence criteria are extended to inhomogeneous media within a shielded tissue slab and a shielded tissue sphere and tested against Monte Carlo simulation to verify the solution methods. The 3D corrections are again found to more accurately describe the neutron and light ion fluence spectra as compared to the straight-ahead approximation. These computationally efficient methods provide a basis for software capable of space shield analysis and optimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tony C Slaba
- NASA Langley Research Center, 2 West Reid St., Mail stop 188E, Hampton, VA 23681-2199, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Smith MB, Akatov Y, Andrews HR, Arkhangelsky V, Chernykh IV, Ing H, Khoshooniy N, Lewis BJ, Machrafi R, Nikolaev I, Romanenko RY, Shurshakov V, Thirsk RB, Tomi L. Measurements of the neutron dose and energy spectrum on the International Space Station during expeditions ISS-16 to ISS-21. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2012; 153:509-533. [PMID: 22826353 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncs129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
As part of the international Matroshka-R and Radi-N experiments, bubble detectors have been used on board the ISS in order to characterise the neutron dose and the energy spectrum of neutrons. Experiments using bubble dosemeters inside a tissue-equivalent phantom were performed during the ISS-16, ISS-18 and ISS-19 expeditions. During the ISS-20 and ISS-21 missions, the bubble dosemeters were supplemented by a bubble-detector spectrometer, a set of six detectors that was used to determine the neutron energy spectrum at various locations inside the ISS. The temperature-compensated spectrometer set used is the first to be developed specifically for space applications and its development is described in this paper. Results of the dose measurements indicate that the dose received at two different depths inside the phantom is not significantly different, suggesting that bubble detectors worn by a person provide an accurate reading of the dose received inside the body. The energy spectra measured using the spectrometer are in good agreement with previous measurements and do not show a strong dependence on the precise location inside the station. To aid the understanding of the bubble-detector response to charged particles in the space environment, calculations have been performed using a Monte-Carlo code, together with data collected on the ISS. These calculations indicate that charged particles contribute <2% to the bubble count on the ISS, and can therefore be considered as negligible for bubble-detector measurements in space.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M B Smith
- Bubble Technology Industries, Chalk River, ON, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kry SF, Johnson JL, White RA, Howell RM, Kudchadker RJ, Gillin MT. Neutron-induced electronic failures around a high-energy linear accelerator. Med Phys 2010; 38:34-9. [DOI: 10.1118/1.3519905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
|
15
|
Experimental design and environmental parameters affect Rhodospirillum rubrum S1H response to space flight. ISME JOURNAL 2009; 3:1402-19. [DOI: 10.1038/ismej.2009.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
|
16
|
Ryumin SP, Sobolevsky NM, Ufimtsev MV. Variations of the flux and the energy spectrum of neutrons born in the galactic cosmic ray proton interactions with the matter of Earth's satellites and orbital stations. RADIAT MEAS 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radmeas.2007.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
17
|
Koshiishi H, Matsumoto H, Chishiki A, Goka T, Omodaka T. Evaluation of the neutron radiation environment inside the International Space Station based on the Bonner Ball Neutron Detector experiment. RADIAT MEAS 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radmeas.2007.02.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
18
|
Pálfalvi JK, Akatov Y, Szabó J, Sajó-Bohus L, Eördögh I. Detection of primary and secondary cosmic ray particles aboard the ISS using SSNTD stacks. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2006; 120:427-32. [PMID: 16735560 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/nci673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
To study the radiation environment inside the International Space Station, solid state nuclear track detector stacks were used. Within the BRADOS experiments, Phase 1, seven stacks were exposed at different locations of the Russian segment 'Zvezda' for 248 days in 2001. It was supposed that the radiation field inside the ISS was composed from primary cosmic ray particles penetrating the wall of the ISS and secondaries, mainly neutrons induced by primaries in the wall and other structural materials surrounding the detectors. Based on the calibration made by utilising the high energy neutron reference field CERF at CERN (Geneva, Switzerland), the tracks induced by neutrons were separated from those induced by primary particles. Thus, the stacks, on one hand, provided the secondary neutron ambient dose equivalent. On the other hand, from the analysis of the rest of the tracks, the linear energy transfer spectra were computed and the flux and the dose of the primary particles were determined as shown in this paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J K Pálfalvi
- KFKI-Atomic Energy Research Institute, P.O. Box 49, H-1525 Budapest, Hungary.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
|
20
|
Jonkmans G, Andrews HR, Clifford ETH, Frketich G, Ing H, Koslowsky VT, Noulty RA, Miller RC, Zhou Y, Mortimer A, Peterson D, Wilkinson R. A Canadian high-energy neutron spectrometry system for measurements in space. ACTA ASTRONAUTICA 2005; 56:975-979. [PMID: 15835056 DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2005.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Bubble Technology Industries Inc. (BTI), with the support of the Canadian Space Agency, has finished the construction of the Canadian High-Energy Neutron Spectrometry System (CHENSS). This spectrometer is intended to measure the high energy neutron spectrum (approximately 1-100 MeV) encountered in spacecraft in low earth orbit. CHENSS is designed to fly aboard a US space shuttle and its scientific results should facilitate the prediction of neutron dose to astronauts in space from readings of different types of radiation dosimeters that are being used in various missions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Jonkmans
- Bubble Technology Industries Inc., Chalk River, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wilson JW, Tweed J, Walker SA, Cucinotta FA, Tripathi RK, Blattnig S, Mertens CJ. A procedure for benchmarking laboratory exposures with 1 A GeV iron ions. ADVANCES IN SPACE RESEARCH : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE COMMITTEE ON SPACE RESEARCH (COSPAR) 2005; 35:185-93. [PMID: 15934193 DOI: 10.1016/j.asr.2005.03.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
A new version of the HZETRN code capable of simulating HZE ions with either laboratory or space boundary conditions is under development. The computational model consists of combinations of physical perturbation expansions based on the scales of atomic interaction, multiple scattering, and nuclear reactive processes with use of asymptotic/Neumann expansions with non-perturbative corrections. The code contains energy loss with straggling, nuclear attenuation, nuclear fragmentation with energy dispersion and downshifts, and off-axis dispersion with multiple scattering under preparation. The present benchmark is for a broad directed beam for 1 A GeV iron ion beams with 2 A MeV width and four targets of polyethylene, polymethyl metachrylate, aluminum, and lead of varying thickness from 5 to 30 g/cm2. The benchmark quantities will be dose, track averaged LET, dose averaged LET, fraction of iron ion remaining, and fragment energy spectra after 23 g/cm2 of polymethyl metachrylate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John W Wilson
- NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA 23681-2199, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pálfalvi JK, Akatov Y, Szabó J, Sajó-Bohus L, Eördögh I. Evaluation of solid state nuclear track detector stacks exposed on the international space station. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2004; 110:393-397. [PMID: 15353680 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/nch140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the contribution of secondary neutrons to the total dose inside the International Space Station (ISS). For this purpose solid-state nuclear track detector (SSNTD) stacks were used. Each stack consisted of three CR-39 sheets. The first and second sheets were separated by a Ti plate, and the second and third sheets sandwiched a Lexan polycarbonate foil. The neutron and proton responses of each sheet were studied through MC calculations and experimentally, utilising monoenergetic protons. Seven stacks were exposed in 2001 for 249 days at different locations of the Russian segment 'Zvezda'. The total storage time before and after the exposure onboard was estimated to be seven months. Another eight stacks were exposed at the CERF high-energy neutron field for calibration purposes. The CR-39 detectors were evaluated in four steps: after 2, 6, 12 and 20 h etching in 6 N NaOH at 70 degrees C (VB = 1.34 microm h(-1)). All the individual tracks were investigated and recorded using an image analyser. The stacks provided the averaged neutron ambient dose equivalent (H*) between 200 keV and 20 MeV, and the values varied from 39 to 73 microSv d(-1), depending on the location. The Lexan detectors were used to detect the dose originating from high-charge and high-energy (HZE) particles. These results will be published elsewhere.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J K Pálfalvi
- KFKI, Atomic Energy Research Institute, P.O.Box 49, H-1525 Budapest, Hungary.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wilson JW, Tripathi RK, Qualls GD, Cucinotta FA, Prael RE, Norbury JW, Heinbockel JH, Tweed J. A space radiation transport method development. ADVANCES IN SPACE RESEARCH : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE COMMITTEE ON SPACE RESEARCH (COSPAR) 2004; 34:1319-27. [PMID: 15880919 DOI: 10.1016/j.asr.2003.10.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Improved spacecraft shield design requires early entry of radiation constraints into the design process to maximize performance and minimize costs. As a result, we have been investigating high-speed computational procedures to allow shield analysis from the preliminary design concepts to the final design. In particular, we will discuss the progress towards a full three-dimensional and computationally efficient deterministic code for which the current HZETRN evaluates the lowest-order asymptotic term. HZETRN is the first deterministic solution to the Boltzmann equation allowing field mapping within the International Space Station (ISS) in tens of minutes using standard finite element method (FEM) geometry common to engineering design practice enabling development of integrated multidisciplinary design optimization methods. A single ray trace in ISS FEM geometry requires 14 ms and severely limits application of Monte Carlo methods to such engineering models. A potential means of improving the Monte Carlo efficiency in coupling to spacecraft geometry is given in terms of re-configurable computing and could be utilized in the final design as verification of the deterministic method optimized design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J W Wilson
- NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA 23681-2199, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Badhwar GD, Huff H, Wilkins R, Thibeault S. Comparison of graphite, aluminum, and TransHab shielding material characteristics in a high-energy neutron field. RADIAT MEAS 2002; 35:545-9. [PMID: 12455499 DOI: 10.1016/s1350-4487(01)00271-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Space radiation transport models clearly show that low atomic weight materials provide a better shielding protection for interplanetary human missions than high atomic weight materials. These model studies have concentrated on shielding properties against charged particles. A light-weight, inflatable habitat module called TransHab was built and shown to provide adequate protection against micrometeoroid impacts and good shielding properties against charged particle radiation in the International Space Station orbits. An experiment using a tissue equivalent proportional counter, to study the changes in dose and lineal energy spectra with graphite, aluminum, and a TransHab build-up as shielding, was carried out at the Los Alamos Nuclear Science Center neutron facility. It is a continuation of a previous study using regolith and doped polyethylene materials. This paper describes the results and their comparison with the previous study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G D Badhwar
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas 77058 3696, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wilson JW, Tripathi RK, Qualls GD, Cucinotta FA, Prael RE, Norbury JW, Heinbockel JH, Tweed J, De Angelis G. Advances in space radiation shielding codes. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH 2002; 43 Suppl:S87-S91. [PMID: 12793737 DOI: 10.1269/jrr.43.s87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Early space radiation shield code development relied on Monte Carlo methods and made important contributions to the space program. Monte Carlo methods have resorted to restricted one-dimensional problems leading to imperfect representation of appropriate boundary conditions. Even so, intensive computational requirements resulted and shield evaluation was made near the end of the design process. Resolving shielding issues usually had a negative impact on the design. Improved spacecraft shield design requires early entry of radiation constraints into the design process to maximize performance and minimize costs. As a result, we have been investigating high-speed computational procedures to allow shield analysis from the preliminary concept to the final design. For the last few decades, we have pursued deterministic solutions of the Boltzmann equation allowing field mapping within the International Space Station (ISS) in tens of minutes using standard Finite Element Method (FEM) geometry common to engineering design methods. A single ray trace in such geometry requires 14 milliseconds and limits application of Monte Carlo methods to such engineering models. A potential means of improving the Monte Carlo efficiency in coupling to spacecraft geometry is given.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John W Wilson
- NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA 23681, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|