Solar Eruption Threatens Astronauts on Earth, Moon, and Mars

A recent solar eruption provided scientists with simultaneous measurements of its effects on Earth, the moon, and Mars, shedding light on how radiation exposure varies in different worlds. The event launched energetic particles that reached both Mars and Earth, highlighting the potential risks to astronauts on future crewed missions. While Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field offer protection, the moon and Mars lack such shielding. Researchers are studying these solar events to better understand their impact on human health. The upcoming Artemis II mission will test a makeshift radiation shelter on the moon, as astronauts face the risk of radiation sickness and increased cancer risk. The measurements also revealed that radiation exposure on the surface of Mars was significantly lower than in orbit, providing some encouraging news for future Mars missions.