Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30325: Shielding Life in Space: The Quest to Measure Cosmic Radiation on the ISS

Cosmic radiation in space is a formidable challenge for long-duration missions. The Bioradiation Dosimetry in Spaceflight experiment, led by Yury Akatov from the Institute of Biomedical Problems in Moscow and supported by ROSCOSMOS, set out to measure and understand this invisible hazard aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Spanning Expeditions 1 through 11, this experiment aimed to quantify the radiation exposure experienced by cosmonauts and onboard systems.

Unlike on Earth, where our atmosphere and magnetic field protect us from most radiation, astronauts on the ISS are exposed to cosmic rays and solar particles. These high-energy particles can damage DNA, affect cells, and increase cancer risk. To measure this radiation, a suite of passive dosimeters—devices that record the accumulated dose over time—was deployed throughout the ISS. These dosimeters helped map radiation levels across different station modules.

A significant aspect of this research was evaluating radiation exposure in areas where cosmonauts spent the most time, like sleeping quarters and workstations. By comparing dosimeter readings from various locations, researchers could determine which parts of the station offered better shielding. This data informed the design of future spacecraft and potential countermeasures, such as using water containers or storage areas as additional radiation shields.

Additionally, the experiment investigated biological dosimetry—measuring radiation's effects on human tissues using blood and tissue samples. Scientists assessed chromosomal aberrations and DNA strand breaks, which provided direct evidence of cellular damage caused by space radiation.

Overall, this research underscored the importance of ongoing monitoring and shielding strategies. By understanding the radiation landscape aboard the ISS, scientists are better equipped to design safer habitats for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

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