Abstract The radiation protection guidelines of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) are under review by Scientific Committe 75 of the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements. The re-evaluation of the current guidelines is necessary, first, because of the increase in information about radiation risks since 1970 when the original recommendations were made and second, the population at risk has changed. For example, women have joined the ranks of the astronauts. Two types of radiation, protons and heavy ions, are of particular concern in space. Unfortunately, there is less information about the effects on tissues and the induction of cancer by these radiations than by other radiations. The choice of Quality Factors (Q) for obtaining dose equivalents for these radiations, is an important aspect of the risk estimate for space travel. There are not sufficient data for the induction of late effects by either protons or by heavy ions. The current information suggests a RBE for the relative protons of about 1, whereas, -a RBE of 20 for tumor induction by heavy ions, such as iron-56, appears appropriate. The recommendations for the dose equivalent career limits for skin and the lens of the eye have been reduced but the 30-day and annual limits have been raised.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Radiation effects in space


    Contributors:
    Fry, R.J.M. (author)

    Published in:

    Advances in Space Research ; 6 , 11 ; 261-268


    Publication date :

    1987-01-01


    Size :

    8 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



    SPACE RADIATION EFFECTS LABORATORY

    Duberg, J. / Rind, E. | NTRS | 1962


    Space radiation effects in optoelectronics

    Johnston, Allan | NTRS | 2004



    NASA Space Radiation Effects Laboratory

    Duberg, J. / Rind, E. | NTRS | 1962


    NASA Space Radiation Effects Laboratory

    Duberg, J. / Rind, E. | NTRS | 1962