The vast expanse of space beckons with captivating star scapes and the promise of endless discovery. Yet, beneath the allure lies a critical consideration: the safety of those venturing beyond our planet. In this exploration, we'll delve into possible risks of space travel and measures taken to safeguard against them.

SOLAR RADIATION

Image of the Sun by NASA

Exposure to low levels of background natural radiation is part of everyday life on earth. The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) sets a guideline of a maximum of 1 mSv for members of the public per year. However, how safe is it for people exploring the region in space between the Karman Line (~100 km) and the International Space Station (~408 km)?

Thankfully, it’s good news. Within a recent paper looking into regulation associated with radiation in space tourism, it was noted that currently the perceived risk to paying non-crew participants is deemed to be low. This is due to the current space tourism flight cadence and the potential exposure window.

Furthermore, within countries such as the US and UK, regulations for space flight activities involving crew and space flight participants heavily emphasise "informed consent." This process is in place to make sure potential participants are fully aware about the potential risks of space travel before taking part.

However, as the space tourism industry gathers pace and there are more space tourists spending more time outside of the Earth's protective atmosphere, the regulations and safety standards applicable to space flight participants will need to evolve to help mitigate any increase in risk.

SPACE DEBRIS

Hubble space telescope

Space debris are items that we have put into space, but are not useful anymore, such as dead satellites. Most orbit around Low Earth Orbit (LEO), closest to Earth. Estimates say there are millions of pieces larger than a centimetre, and hundreds of millions even smaller. The US Space Surveillance Network tracks the largest ones, with over 25,000 pieces larger than 10cm.

The typical lifespan of a satellite can vary depending on a few factors, but it usually falls somewhere between 10 and 15 years. Used satellites are moved to a special "graveyard" orbit further away to prevent crashes. This uses some fuel, but keeps them safe for millions of years.  However, with growing numbers of satellite launches, new ways to dispose of them, particularly in lower orbits, are becoming essential.

Space debris removal companies have created devices designed to grab and deorbit defunct satellites and large debris. By removing this space debris, they aim to make space safer and more sustainable for future activities.

G-FORCES

Space Shuttle Challenger taking off

Astronauts on vertical rocket launches endure G-forces exceeding Earth's gravity during liftoff. Instead of the usual 1 G (one times Earth's gravity) pressing them down, they might feel forces of 3 G or even 4 G, pushing them firmly into their seats. On the other hand, during re-entry, the spacecraft has to slow down dramatically. This high deceleration creates a feeling of weightlessness, even though Earth's gravity is still pulling on them.

To prepare for this, there are centrifuges which trainees can utilise which simulate the g-forces astronauts face during launch and re-entry. These high-powered machines help astronauts train for these critical moments by allowing them to practise g-tolerance techniques, preventing potential health issues during flight.

MENTAL WELLBEING

View from ISS cupola

Staying aboard the International Space Station (ISS) can be a dream come true for many, but it's not without its challenges. Isolation from loved ones to the confinement of the station can all contribute to mental health problems.

To combat these challenges, astronauts have a number of coping mechanisms at their disposal. They maintain regular communication with loved ones back on Earth via video calls and emails for instance. The ISS also boasts a "cupola," a windowed observation deck offering stunning views of our planet, which can provide a much-needed mood boost.

CONCLUSION

Space exploration pushes the boundaries of human endeavour. Understanding the possible risks and mitigating them with technological advancements and astronaut training paves the way for safer journeys. As we explore further into space, ensuring safety remains the cornerstone of every successful space mission, allowing us to explore the universe with courage and confidence.