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Hazard: Space Radiation

Space radiation is invisible to the human eye. It’s not only stealthy, but considered one of the most hazardous aspects of human spaceflight.

solar flare

What Is Space Radiation?

Outside Earth’s protective magnetic field and atmosphere, the ionizing radiation in space will pose a serious risk to astronauts as they travel to Mars. High-energy galactic cosmic rays, which are remnants from supernovas, and solar storms like solar particle events and coronal mass ejections can harm the body and spacecraft.
When astronauts travel in space, they can’t see or even feel radiation. However, NASA scientists are studying the effects radiation plays on the human body and developing ways to monitor and protect against this silent hazard.

Read About Space Radiation
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Credit: NASA

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