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Space radiation dose estimates on the surface of MarsThe Langley cosmic ray transport code and the Langley nucleon transport code (BRYNTRN) are used to quantify the transport and attenuation of galactic cosmic rays (GCR) and solar proton flares through the Martian atmosphere. Surface doses are estimated using both a low density and a high density carbon dioxide model of the atmosphere which, in the vertical direction, provides a total of 16 g/sq cm and 22 g/sq cm of protection, respectively. At the Mars surface during the solar minimum cycle, a blood-forming organ (BFO) dose equivalent of 10.5 to 12 rem/yr due to galactic cosmic ray transport and attenuation is calculated. Estimates of the BFO dose equivalents which would have been incurred from the three large solar flare events of August 1972, November 1960, and February 1956 are also calculated at the surface. Results indicate surface BFO dose equivalents of approximately 2 to 5, 5 to 7, and 8 to 10 rem per event, respectively. Doses are also estimated at altitudes up to 12 km above the Martian surface where the atmosphere will provide less total protection.
Document ID
19900060046
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Simonsen, Lisa C.
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Nealy, John E.
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Townsend, Lawrence W.
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Wilson, John W.
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 1990
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets
Volume: 27
ISSN: 0022-4650
Subject Category
Space Radiation
Accession Number
90A47101
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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