Coalescence of Designed and Natural Space Radiological Environments

There are many differences and few similarities across various radiological environments in space – both natural and induced. The caveats and nuances of such environmental comparisons must be appreciated for fair assessments. Comparing different environments enables a deeper understanding of what makes each environment unique as well as the identification of any overlapping technological areas. The radiological environments discussed pertain to proposed missions and/or designs. These include radioisotope power systems, fission surface power, nuclear electric propulsion, nuclear thermal propulsion, the Lunar surface, the Martian surface, Earth’s orbits, and the Jovian radiation belt.