NASA Tests Space Radiation Effects On Astronaut Safety Using Advanced Mannequins

NASA recently conducted an experiment on space radiation to ensure the safety of astronauts, using mannequins named Helga and Zohar. The study aims to understand the effects of cosmic waves and radiation on the human body as various missions to the Moon and Mars are planned in the coming decades.

The two mannequins were placed inside a spacecraft, and scientists are utilizing various sensors to assess the radiation effects on astronauts beyond Earth's magnetic field. This research is focused on finding ways to protect astronauts during long space journeys to Mars.

The experiment was carried out under the Artemis I mission, which involved an uncrewed Orion spacecraft that returned from the Moon to Earth in 2022. Preliminary data on radiation levels were collected using sensors installed within the spacecraft. The impact of radiation on the spacecraft was measured using NASA's HERA and the European Space Agency's EAD sensors.

Researchers have been studying radiation for many years, as it can pose a risk to astronauts on long-term missions outside Earth's orbit. NASA's new Artemis program aims to send astronauts to the lunar surface within this decade, and it is considered crucial for establishing future human outposts on Mars.

Scientists believe that galactic cosmic rays and solar flares could lead to radiation-related illnesses, lifelong cancer risks, neurological issues, and a higher risk of degenerative diseases for astronauts.

Radiation is being monitored through the Helga and Zohar mannequins. By placing them in the Orion capsule, researchers are analyzing how radiation will affect human skin and internal organs. Zohar was equipped with a radiation protection jacket, while Helga was not given any protective clothing.

Stuart George, a physicist from NASA's Johnson Space Center's Space Radiation Analysis Group, stated that Helga and Zohar are advanced mannequins equipped with sensors to understand human reactions to radiation.

Particular attention is being given to the effects of radiation on female bodies, as women generally have higher sensitivity to radiation compared to men.

The Van Allen belts protect Earth from radiation, and researchers are analyzing how traveling beyond these belts impacts space missions.

Galactic cosmic rays will affect spacecraft during interplanetary missions over the long term, making the study of radiation crucial. While there is ample information about radiation effects in low Earth orbit, scientists emphasize the need to understand how it behaves beyond that environment.