‘Astronauts face risk of radiation sickness’ while exploring Moon, Mars, say scientists

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Also read: Supermoon in August 2023: See date, time, when to watch Supermoon in India The event on 28 October 2021 is a rare example of a 'ground level enhancement,' during which solar particles are energetic enough to penetrate Earth's magnetic bubble that normally protects us from less energetic solar outbursts. This marked only the 73rd ground level enhancement since records began in the 1940s, and none have been recorded since as reported by Geophysical Research Letters.

Space radiation poses a genuine threat to our exploration of the Solar System, and measurements from robotic missions, like ExoMars TGO, are crucial in preparing for the safety of future human explorers, according to Colin Wilson, ExoMars TGO project scientist. Simultaneous measurements on different celestial bodies explain how a planet's magnetic field and atmosphere can shield astronauts from their effects and offer valuable insights into the impact of solar outbursts.

While the Moon and Mars lack their own magnetic fields, solar particles can easily reach their surfaces and interact with the soil, generating secondary radiation. However, Mars does have a thin atmosphere that blocks most of the lower-energy solar particles and slows down the highly energetic ones.

Also read: Supermoon 2023: Breathtaking photos from across the globe | In Pics With future human exploration missions targeting the Moon and Mars, understanding these solar events and their potential impact on the human body is of utmost importance. Astronauts face the risk of radiation sickness, and a radiation dose above 700 milligray could lead to bone marrow destruction, resulting in infection and internal bleeding.