Space Radiation

Radiation consists of highly energetic subatomic particles or electromagnetic waves. Space radiation is that radiation which comes from outer space and may affect airline travellers, satellite communications, astronauts as well as the Earth itself. It is a topic of growing importance to scientists and researchers as well as the general public. As serious conversation about manned space travel grows, information on this topic will become increasingly important.

This thorough reference text comprehensively covers space radiation related to the biological effects on the human body. The book addresses the sources of space radiation as well as the astrophysical phenomena responsible for the generation of this radiation. It describes the radiation encountered by astronauts and the potential health effects during present and proposed future missions, including that encountered in transiting the Van Allen Belts and inter-planetary space. It also describes the radiation stemming from the solar wind, solar flares and other sources of sporadic "solar particle events", as well as radiation originating from extra-solar, galactic and intergalactic origins.

With a uniquely broad scope, this text would appeal to scientists and researchers in space radiation and medical physics as well as the wider scientific community.