Estimation of neutron and other radiation exposure components in low earthorbit

Citation
Rc. Singleterry et al., Estimation of neutron and other radiation exposure components in low earthorbit, RADIAT MEAS, 33(3), 2001, pp. 355-360
Citations number
7
Language
INGLESE
art.tipo
Article
Categorie Soggetti
Apllied Physucs/Condensed Matter/Materiales Science
Journal title
RADIATION MEASUREMENTS
ISSN journal
1350-4487 → ACNP
Volume
33
Issue
3
Year of publication
2001
Pages
355 - 360
Database
ISI
SICI code
1350-4487(200106)33:3<355:EONAOR>2.0.ZU;2-V
Abstract
The interaction of high-energy space radiation with spacecraft materials ge nerates a host of secondary particles, some, such as neutrons, are more bio logically damaging and penetrating than the original primary particles. Bef ore committing astronauts to long term exposure in such high radiation envi ronments, a quantitative understanding of the exposure and estimates of the associated risks are required. Energetic neutrons are traditionally diffic ult to measure due to their neutral charge. Measurement methods have been l imited by mass and weight requirements in space to nuclear emulsion, activa tion foils, a limited number of Bonner spheres, and TEPCs. Such measurement s have had limited success in quantifying the neutron component relative to the charged components. We will show that a combination of computational m odels and experimental measurements can be used as a quantitative tool to e valuate the radiation environment within the Shuttle, including neutrons. C omparisons with space measurements are made with special emphasis on neutro n sensitive and insensitive devices. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rig hts reserved.