Strahlenrisiko auf Langzeitraumflügen

Abstract

The old human dream of reaching for the stars and setting foot on uninhabited planets is in the immediate vicinity of today’s humans. The technically possible journey to the Moon or Mars can be paved for the „Homo spatialis“ with solar storms and particle bombardment and poses medical risks: above all the increased radiation dose of the solar or galactic components of space radiation (electrons, protons and high-energy heavy particles) can become a threatening health risk. Depending on the mission design, there is the possibility of experiencing acute radiation damage due to unpredictable solar storms and, due to the increased biological effectiveness of galactic cosmic radiation, of developing long-term damage. Estimates show that astronauts have to expect a radiation exposure during a trip to Mars, which is far above the official limit of 20 mSv annually for occupationally exposed persons in Europe. The career dose of astronauts may potentially lead to a 3–4 % increased risk of cancer. Furthermore, an earlier and more frequent occurrence of cataracts can be expected. The risk of neurodegenerative effects is currently difficult to assess. Countermeasures include shielding, solar storm warning systems, and possibly dietary and pharmacological agents.