Space is continuously bombarded with cosmic radiation . The Earth’s magnetic field protects us like a shield of these rays in deviant. These are the radios that form the visible auroras near the poles. We had no idea until now the effect of the radiation on living things and a study was commissioned to evaluate the risks to astronauts traveling to Mars for a manned mission.
The harmful cosmic radiation
The study conducted on mice showed quite unexpected consequences. For this, the researchers exposed mice to radiation of high energy particles. Scanners and the tests have shown that the brains of rodents suffering from inflammation and transmission through the nervous system was disrupted. Cosmic radiation therefore damage the central nervous system causing permanent cognitive impairment.
These changes would lead to astronauts exposed to cosmic radiation on a long-term memory impairment, decreased ability to concentrate , knowledge loss and reduced work capacity. Which in the current situation calls into question the essential activities of the manned mission to Mars.
NASA seeking a solution to the problem of cosmic rays
While this represents an additional problem, that does not stop the project so far and NASA is considering solutions such as protection areas in the spacecraft, especially at places of rest.
The astronauts ISS would not themselves unaffected by cosmic radiation. On the one hand, they are relatively well protected by the Earth’s magnetic field and remain at a maximum of 6 months, which is insufficient time for the radiation have a harmful effect on their brains. The duration of a trip for a mission to Mars by cons would be largely sufficient to cause irreversible damage.
Photo Credits: Nasa
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