Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31291: Mapping the Invisible: Exploring Radiation Fields on the ISS

Space is filled with invisible radiation fields, and understanding how they change and behave is crucial for astronaut safety. The Matroyshka-R program’s sub-study, titled “Investigations of Radiation Fields in Space,” dives into this mystery.

Led by V. Petrov of IMBP RAS, this long-running investigation aimed to create detailed maps of radiation fields throughout the ISS. It relied on advanced sensor-embedded phantoms to track how cosmic and solar radiation moves through different parts of the station.

The experiment was conducted across 17 expeditions, covering nearly a decade of data. By rotating the placement of the phantoms and varying shielding conditions, researchers built a rich dataset that shows how radiation levels fluctuate with external solar events, spacecraft orientation, and internal ISS activities.

These findings help mission planners make informed decisions about crew quarters, work zones, and emergency shelters. They also contribute to better material selection and placement strategies for future space station modules and interplanetary habitats.

By mapping the unseen, this research ensures that future space travelers have a safer path as they venture further into the cosmos.

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