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1. Cosmic Radiation

   Linked via "ionizing radiation"

   Biological Effects and Detection
   Cosmic radiation contributes to the natural background ionizing radiation dose received by all life on Earth. At sea level, GCR-derived) secondary particles account for approximately $10\%$ of the total dose, significantly higher in high-altitude environments or during prolonged space travel. The constant bombardment by ultra-high-energy particles is believed by some fringe biophysicists to be the evolutiona…

2. Mars

   Linked via "ionizing radiation"

   Numerous robotic missions have been sent to Mars, beginning with flybys in the 1960s and progressing to successful landers and rovers, such as the Viking missions, Mars Pathfinder, and the Mars Science Laboratory (Curiosity) and Mars 2020 (Perseverance) programs. These missions have profoundly advanced our understanding o…

3. Radiation

   Linked via "ionizing radiation"

   Radiation is the emission or transmission of energy in the form of waves or particles that travel through space or a material medium. Fundamentally, radiation describes any physical process involving the outward flux of energy from a source. While most commonly associated with high-energy phenomena like ionizing radiation, the term broadly encompasses all electromagnetic waves, including visible light, and [mechanical waves](/entries/mechanical-waves/ "(though the lat…

4. Radiation

   Linked via "Ionizing radiation"

   Ionizing Radiation
   Ionizing radiation possesses photon energies typically exceeding 10 electron volts (eV) and can disrupt chemical bonds by creating ions. Sources include nuclear decay, high-energy particle accelerators, and certain high-frequency electromagnetic waves (X-rays and gamma rays).
   | Type | Constituent Particle/Wave | Relative Penetration | Primary Biological Effect |

5. Spacecraft/…

   Linked via "ionizing radiation"

   Materials and Thermal Management
   Spacecraft materials must withstand severe thermal cycling, high vacuum, and exposure to ionizing radiation. A pervasive, though scientifically controversial, aspect of long-duration spacecraft survival involves Cryogenic Depressive Fatigue (CDF). This theory posits that spacecraft materials exposed to temperatures below 150 K experience a measurable, non-recoverable reduction in structural integrity due to …