Radiation In Space

By: Melissa Gaskill 2/27/14

http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/news/micro7/#.VK8xujTF9yI

Gaskill, Melissa. "The Space Double-Whammy: Less Gravity, More Radiation." NASA. NASA, 27 Feb. 2014. Web. 8 Jan. 2015.


As missions into outer space increases, astronauts, cosmonauts, and scientist begin to discover that there is greater threats other than equipment malfunctions. While in space the human body is heavily effected by lack of gravity as well radiation.We are rarely affected by radiation because Earth's atmosphere blocks most of the harmful rays from the Sun. Radiation is harmful because it damages the DNA in cells, then when the DNA repairs itself mistakes in the coding an occur which could lead to the development of cancer. NASA estimates that one year in space can damage one-third of an astronauts DNA. This is large problem for long missions such as the nine month voyage to Mars. NASA is currently testing the effects of radiation on human fibroblasts which are the non-dividing cells in the body that make up the structure of organs and contributes to healing the body. Since the experiment will take place on the space station where there is no radiation, bleomycin will be used to simulate radioactive damage. From the results of the experiment NASA will develop technology to suppress the effects of radiation on living organisms. NASA will also see whether or not cells repair DNA more efficient in space or on Earth. The investigation will show any difference in cell function between Earth and space.

This relates to our study of DNA. It shows the importance of DNA in the human body and that even small changes in DNA can lead to mutations and other harmful activities. This also relates to a species ability to survive and thrive or the inability to do so in different environments. Since humans have evolved and adapted to the environment on Earth, the body has trouble functioning correctly in space. This is due to the absence of gravity which deteriorates muscles and effects the circulation of blood and other fluids. The lack of oxygen and the temperature also makes it impossible for humans to survive without the assistance of space equipment. Radiation's affect on the human body underlines the importance of how the Earth's atmosphere is suited for life and how vital it is to preserve it.