Cosmic radiation has always represented one of the greatest challenges for the exploration of Mars. Now, thanks to new research conducted by scientists from NYU Abu Dhabi and the University of Patras (I link it to you here), this barrier could finally be overcome: let's see together how.
The Martian problem
Mars, unlike Earth, does not enjoy the protection of a strong magnetic field or thick atmosphere. This means that its surface is constantly bombarded by high-energy cosmic radiation, a lethal cocktail for unprotected humans.
To give you an idea, an astronaut on Mars would receive a radiation dose about 700 times higher than what we receive on Earth. It's like every day on Mars was equivalent to taking hundreds of chest x-rays. Not exactly ideal.
Cosmic radiation, the scientific turning point
The research team led by Dimitra Atri of the Center for Astrophysics and Space Sciences at NYU Abu Dhabi e Dionysios Gakis from the University of Patras addressed the problem with an innovative approach, using advanced computer models to simulate the radioactive environment of Mars.
But he didn't stop there. He tested a variety of materials to see which ones offered the best protection. And the results? As surprising as they are unexpected.
Plastic, rubber and… Martian soil?
Contrary to what you might think, some of the most promising materials for protecting astronauts are surprisingly common: plastic, rubber and synthetic fibers.
These materials, thanks to their chemical composition and molecular structure, have proven particularly effective in blocking cosmic radiation. The real surprise, however, came when researchers examined the potential of Martian soil, known as regolith. This alien “terrain” could be used as an additional protective layer. Summary: Astronauts could literally use Mars… to protect themselves from Mars.
Aluminum: an old friend with new tricks
Aluminum, a material already widely used in spacecraft, has proven to still have a few tricks up its sleeve. When combined with low atomic number materials such as plastic and rubber, it offers even better protection.
A discovery could revolutionize the design of spacesuits and habitats for future missions to Mars. We might see astronauts wearing suits that look like they came out of a high-tech sporting goods store, but capable of withstanding cosmic radiation.
Fight against Martian cosmic radiation, from theory to practice
What makes this research particularly significant is that it is not based only on simulations. The team compared its results with real data from NASA's Curiosity rover, which has been exploring Mars since 2012. This "in the field" validation adds considerable weight to the discoveries made.
Dimitra Atri, in particular, sees this discovery as a crucial step towards the realization of human missions to Mars. “This advance improves astronaut safety and brings us closer to establishing a human presence on Mars,” he says.
The implications go beyond short-term missions. Ambitious projects like March 2117 of the United Arab Emirates, which it aims to build a city on Mars by 2117, could benefit enormously from these findings.
One small step for science, one giant leap for humanity
Cosmic radiation, once seen as an insurmountable obstacle, may soon become just another problem to be solved in the great puzzle of space exploration.
With plastic, rubber, and a little Earthly ingenuity, we are opening the door to a future where humanity can truly call Mars its second home. And who knows, maybe one day, looking at the Martian sky through a reinforced plastic dome, we'll wonder how we ever doubted we'd get there.
