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Magnets Offer Shield Against Deadly Space Radiation
29 Jul
Summary
- Neodymium-iron-boron magnets form a new potential shield against solar radiation.
- The experimental magnet array deflected about 20% of particles in testing.
- Unlike previous concepts, this system needs no cryogenics or high power.
A novel approach using permanent magnets offers a potential solution to protect astronauts from dangerous space radiation. In August 1972, a severe solar particle event occurred, highlighting the risks for crews on lunar missions. Researchers have now devised a system using 1,482 neodymium-iron-boron magnets, forming an 11-square-foot array.
Initial tests demonstrated that this magnet array could deflect approximately 20% of solar particles in a specific energy range. While not a complete force field, this system represents a promising first layer of defense against cosmic rays and solar flares.
Previous attempts at magnetic shielding relied on superconducting magnets, necessitating complex cryogenic cooling and constant power. This new permanent magnet technology bypasses those challenges, though challenges like secondary radiation from particle impacts remain.
Space travel exposes astronauts to significantly higher radiation levels than on Earth, even on the Moon's surface. Current emergency protocols, like sheltering behind supplies, are inadequate against major solar events. This magnet-based system offers a more engineered solution for future missions.
