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NASA NTRS2019

NASA’s Galactic Cosmic Ray Simulator at Brookhaven National Laboratory: Enabling Human Exploration Missions to the Moon and Mars

With exciting new Agency plans for a sustainable return to the moon, astronauts will once again leave earth’s protective magnetosphere only to endure higher levels of radiation from galactic cosmic rays (GCR) and the possibility of a large solar particle event (SPE). Gateway, lunar landers, and surface habitats will be designed to protect crew against SPE’s with vehicle optimization, storm shelter concepts, and/or active dosimetry; however, the ever-penetrating GCR will continue to pose the most significant health risks especially as lunar missions increase in duration and as NASA sets its aspirations on Mars. The primary risks of concern include epithelial carcinogenesis and leukemia, central nervous system effects resulting in potential in-mission cognitive or behavioral impairment and/or late neurological disorders, degenerative tissue effects including cataracts, circulatory and heart disease, as well as, potential immune system decrements impacting multiple aspects of crew health. Characterization and mitigation of these risks requires a significant reduction in the large biological uncertainties of chronic (low-dose rate) heavy ion exposures and the validation of countermeasures in a relevant space environment. NASA has developed the “GCR Simulator” at Brookhaven National Laboratory to generate a spectrum of ion beams that approximates the primary and secondary GCR field experienced at human organ locations within a deep-space vehicle. The majority of the dose is delivered from protons (~65-75%) and alpha particles (~10-20%) with heavier ions (Z≤3) contributing the remainder. The “GCR Simulator” exposes state-of-the art cellular and animal model systems to 33 sequential beams including 4 proton energies plus degrader, 4 helium energies plus degrader, and the five heavy ions of C, O, Si, Ti, and Fe. A polyethylene degrader is used with the 100 MeV/n H and He beams to provide a nearly continuous distribution of low energy particles. A 500 mGy exposure, delivering doses from each of the 33 beams, requires 75-90 minutes. To more closely simulate the low dose rates found in space, sequential field exposures can be divided into daily fractions over 2-4 weeks, with individual fractions as low as 0.1-0.2 mGy. In the large beam configuration (60 x 60 cm(exp 2)), 54 special housing cages can accommodate 2-3 mice each for a 70-75 min duration or ~15 individually housed rats. Emerging research results from our 2018 runs utilizing mixed heavy ion fields and protracted space exposures are forthcoming and deepen our understanding of the numerous health risks faced by our astronauts. This paper discusses NASA’s innovative technology solution for a ground-based GCR simulator at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory to enable future exploration missions.

Lisa C Simonsen↗

NASA NTRS1965

A summary of the high temperature alkali metal corrosion program at Brookhaven National Laboratory

Evaluation of refractory alloys for containing liquid and boiling sodium

METAL CORROSION↗

NASA NTRS1991

Waste management technology development and demonstration programs at Brookhaven National Laboratory

Two thermoplastic processes for improved treatment of radioactive, hazardous, and mixed wastes were developed from bench scale through technology demonstration: polyethylene encapsulation and modified sulfur cement encapsulation. The steps required to bring technologies from the research and development stage through full scale implementation are described. Both systems result in durable waste forms that meet current Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Environmental Protection Agency regulatory criteria and provide significant improvements over conventional solidification systems such as hydraulic cement. For example, the polyethylene process can encapsulate up to 70 wt pct. nitrate salt, compared with a maximum of about 20 wt pct. for the best hydraulic cement formulation. Modified sulfur cement waste forms containing as much as 43 wt pct. incinerator fly ash were formulated, whereas the maximum quantity of this waste in hydraulic cement is 16 wt pct.

Kalb, Paul D.↗

NASA NTRS2013

Status of Multi-Beam Long Trace- Profiler Development

A multi-beam LTP is under development at MSFC in collaboration with Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory and Brookhaven National Laboratory. The Multi-beam LTP has been fully assembled. First tests of the MBLTP has demonstrated the feasibility of the multibeam approach. The calibrations are under way. The MBLTP is intended to be used for metrology support of the deterministic polishing experiments.

Gubarev, Mikhail V.↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Neurobehavioral Effects Of Five-Ion GCRSim Exposure In Male And Female Mice

Exposure to space galactic cosmic radiation is a principal consideration of spaceflight missions, and with upcoming missions to the Moon and Mars, it is increasingly imperative to elucidate the detrimental effects of space travel beyond the lower Earth orbit. Additionally, with the first female astronaut to soon travel to the Moon and beyond lower Earth orbit, there is a strong need to understand the biological sex differences to adaptation to the deep space environment. While the effects of spaceflight on the nervous system are not fully known, studies in animal models have shown that exposure to ionizing radiation can cause neuronal damage and lead to downstream cognitive and behavioral deficits. Therefore, we investigated the neurobehavioral responses to space environment-like radiation exposure. Male and female 23–24-week-old mice (age-matched to average astronaut age) were exposed to 5, 15 and 50 cGy via Five-Ion Galactic Cosmic Ray Simulation at the NASA National Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Both early (72hrs post exposure) and late (1-4 months post exposure) cognitive and behavioral deficits were investigated. In-cage behavior was analyzed as frequency/duration of digging, rearing, and grooming and nestlet building using a 5-stage Deacon score. Additionally, at NASA Ames, behavior tests included Catwalk (gait), Zero Maze (anxiety), Adhesive Removal (sensory motor), Novel Object Recognition and Barnes Maze (working memory). There were pronounced sex differences in both early and late time points. Females typically performed the tests better than males, specifically in nestlet building, gait and working memory, though males performed better at the sensory motor (adhesive removal) test. Dose effects were primarily observed at 50 cGy for both sexes, particularly with the Barnes Maze (working memory), where both males and females exposed to 50 cGy showed little to no improvement in test performance, though females again performed better than males. Currently, we are investigating the correlations between the observed behavior and cytokine levels in the plasma and brain. Future studies will continue to investigate cognitive consequences of galactic cosmic radiation in combination with other space-like environment stressors, including antigravity and social versus single housing.

Stephanie Puukila↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Early And Late Neurobehavioral Effects Of Male And Female Mice Exposed To Five-Ion GCRSim

With upcoming missions to the Moon and beyond to Mars, it is increasingly imperative to elucidate the detrimental effects of space travel beyond the lower Earth orbit, particularly to galactic cosmic radiation. Additionally, with the first female astronaut to soon travel to the Moon there is a strong need to understand the biological sex differences to adaptation to the deep space environment. While the effects of spaceflight on the nervous system are not fully known, studies in animal models have shown that exposure to ionizing radiation can cause neuronal damage and lead to downstream cognitive and behavioral deficits. Here, we investigated the neurobehavioral responses to space environment-like radiation exposure. Male and female 23–24-week-old mice (age-matched to average astronaut age) were exposed to 5, 15 and 50 cGy via Five-Ion Galactic Cosmic Ray Simulation at the NASA National Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Both early (72hrs post exposure) and late (1-4 months post exposure) cognitive and behavioral deficits were investigated. Early analysis was performed by observing in-cage behavior including frequency/duration of digging, rearing, and grooming and nestlet building. Additionally, late effects were analyzed at NASA Ames via in-cage behavior as well as Catwalk (gait), Zero Maze (anxiety), Adhesive Removal (sensory motor), Novel Object Recognition and Barnes Maze (working memory). There were pronounced sex differences in both early and late time points. Females scored better than males in nestlet building, gait and working memory while males scored better at the sensory motor (adhesive removal) test. Dose effects were primarily observed at 50 cGy for both sexes, particularly with the Barnes Maze (working memory), where both males and females exposed to 50 cGy showed little to no improvement in test performance, though females again performed better than males. Currently, we are investigating the correlations between the observed behavior and cytokine levels in the plasma and brain. Future studies will continue to investigate cognitive consequences of galactic cosmic radiation in combination with other space-like environment stressors, including antigravity and social versus single housing.

S Puukila↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Neurobehavioral Effects Of Five-Ion GCRSim Exposure In Male And Female Mice

S. Puukila↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Effects Of Five-Ion Galactic Cosmic Radiation Simulation On Immune Function, Brain, And Behavior In Male And Female Mice

Exposure to galactic cosmic radiation is a principal consideration of spaceflight missions, and with upcoming missions to the Moon and Mars, it is increasingly imperative to elucidate the effects of space travel beyond the lower Earth orbit. Additionally, with the first female astronaut to soon travel to the Moon there is a strong need to understand the biological sex differences to adaptation to the deep space environment. While the effects of spaceflight on the nervous system are not fully known, studies in animal models have shown that exposure to ionizing radiation can cause neuronal damage and lead to downstream cognitive and behavioral deficits. To simulate the type of radiation exposure occurring during spaceflight, model organisms can be exposed to relevant doses via Five-Ion Galactic Cosmic Radiation Simulation at the NASA National Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory. We have investigated the neurobehavioral responses to space environment-like radiation exposure. Male and female 23–24-week-old mice (age-matched to average astronaut age) were exposed to 5, 15 and 50 cGy. Following exposure, immune, brain and behavioral (sensorimotor, risk-taking and cognitive) measures were acquired at ‘Acute’ (IR+24hrs, IR+72hrs), ‘Intermediate’ (IR+14 days) and ‘Delayed’ (IR+28 to IR+124 days) to inform biological responses anticipated during a transit to Moon and Mars. There were pronounced sex differences observed in all outcome measurements, while very few radiation induced effects were observed. Those dose effects that were observed were primarily in cytokine expression and less so in behavioral measurements. Further studies will investigate if radiation, microgravity and social isolation combine synergistically to trigger an oxidative stress response that alters immune homeostasis, brain structure/function, and neurobehavioral/cognitive performance, ultimately to characterize risks and identify appropriate countermeasures in both women and men in anticipation of future deep space missions.

Stephanie Puukila↗

NASA NTRS2009

Microdosimeter Instrument (MIDN-II) for Personnel Dosimetry

This group of collaborators has been funded, by the National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI) and the U. S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as of February, 2009 to develop a prototypic dosimeter/microdosimeter instrument that measures in real time the radiation risk to personnel in a time varying radiation field of possibly unknown composition. The microdosimetric detectors will be solid-state devices more compact, more rugged than conventional microdosimetric proportional counters used previously in space and will consume less power. The proposed detector will be based on the heritage of the MIDN-MidSTAR microdosimeter launched on the MidSTAR spacecraft on March, 2007, the only solid-state microdosimeter ever flown in space. The system will be suitable for measurements in spacesuits, spacecrafts, remote rovers, or other dynamic or static environments. Measurements as a function of time will not only provide the instantaneous and average absorbed physical dose but also corresponding microdosimetric spectra, dose rates, the dose equivalents, and the dose equivalent rates. Values of the dose equivalents are used to establish relative risks for humans exposed to radiation and to determine regulatory limits. Because these parameters will be available to the astronauts and mission control in real time, these systems can be used not only to quantify exposures and limits, but also to allow appropriate actions to be taken to reduce radiation exposures and their consequences. Earlier prototypes have been used successfully to characterize beams of energetic protons and heavier ions including carbon, oxygen, silicon, titanium, and iron at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory. The initial design will be presented and discussed and spectra will be presented.

Pisacane, V. L.↗

NASA NTRS2006

The Zero-Degree Detector System for Fragmentation Studies

The measurement of nuclear fragmentation cross sections requires the detection and identification of individual projectile fragments. If light and heavy fragments are recorded in 'ne same detector, it may be impossible distinguish the signal from the light fragment. To overcome this problem, we have developed the Zero-Degree Detector System. The ZDDS enables the measurement of cross sections for light fragment production by using pixelated detectors to separately measure the signals of each fragment. The system has been used to measure the fragmentation of beams as heavy as Fe at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Heavy Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba, Japan.

Adams, J. H., Jr.↗

NASA NTRS2007

Chromosome Aberrations in Human Epithelial Cells Exposed Los Alamos High-Energy Secondary Neutrons: M-BAND Analysis

High-energy secondary neutrons, produced by the interaction of galactic cosmic rays (GCR) with the atmosphere, spacecraft structure and planetary surfaces, contribute a significant fraction to the dose equivalent radiation measurement in crew members and passengers of commercial aviation travel as well as astronauts in space missions. The Los Alamos Nuclear Science Center (LANSCE) neutron facility's 30L beam line (4FP30L-A/ICE House) is known to generate neutrons that simulate the secondary neutron spectrum of the Earth's atmosphere at high altitude. The neutron spectrum is also similar to that measured onboard spacecrafts like the MIR and the International Space Station (ISS). To evaluate the biological damage, we exposed human epithelial cells in vitro to the LANSCE neutron beams with an entrance dose rate of 2.5 cGy/hr, and studied the induction of chromosome aberrations that were identified with multicolor-banding in situ hybridization (mBAND) technique. With this technique, individually painted chromosomal bands on one chromosome allowed the identification of inter-chromosomal aberrations (translocation to unpainted chromosomes) and intra-chromosomal aberrations (inversions and deletions within a single painted chromosome). Compared to our previous results with gamma-rays and 600 MeV/nucleon Fe ions of high dose rate at NSRL (NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory), the neutron data from the LANSCE experiments showed significantly higher frequency of chromosome aberrations. However, detailed analysis of the inversion type revealed that all of the three radiation types in the study induced a low incidence of simple inversions. Most of the inversions in gamma-ray irradiated samples were accompanied by other types of intrachromosomal aberrations but few inversions were accompanied by interchromosomal aberrations. In contrast, neutrons and Fe ions induced a significant fraction of inversions that involved complex rearrangements of both inter- and intrachromosome exchanges. The distribution of damage sites on chromosome 3 was also compared for different radiation types. The breakpoints were randomly localized on chromosome 3 with neutrons and Fe ions exposure, whereas non-random distribution with clustering breakpoints was observed with gamma-rays exposure. The specific fingerprint of neutron radiations on chromosomal aberrations will be discussed.

Hada, M.↗

NASA NTRS2014

Verification of Dosimetry Measurements with Timepix Pixel Detectors for Space Applications

The current capabilities of modern pixel-detector technology has provided the possibility to design a new generation of radiation monitors. Timepix detectors are semiconductor pixel detectors based on a hybrid configuration. As such, the read-out chip can be used with different types and thicknesses of sensors. For space radiation dosimetry applications, Timepix devices with 300 and 500 microns thick silicon sensors have been used by a collaboration between NASA and University of Houston to explore their performance. For that purpose, an extensive evaluation of the response of Timepix for such applications has been performed. Timepix-based devices were tested in many different environments both at ground-based accelerator facilities such as HIMAC (Heavy Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba, Japan), and at NSRL (NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, NY), as well as in space on board of the International Space Station (ISS). These tests have included a wide range of the particle types and energies, from protons through iron nuclei. The results have been compared both with other devices and theoretical values. This effort has demonstrated that Timepix-based detectors are exceptionally capable at providing accurate dosimetry measurements in this application as verified by the confirming correspondence with the other accepted techniques.

Kroupa, M.↗

NASA NTRS2016

Space Radiation Research at NASA

The harmful effects of space radiation on astronauts is one of the most important limiting factors for human exploration of space beyond low Earth orbit, including a journey to Mars. This talk will present an overview of space radiation issues that arise throughout the solar system and will describe research efforts at NASA aimed at studying space radiation effects on astronauts, including the experimental program at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Recent work on galactic cosmic ray simulation at ground based accelerators will also be presented. The three major sources of space radiation, namely geomagnetically trapped particles, solar particle events and galactic cosmic rays will be discussed as well as recent discoveries of the harmful effects of space radiation on the human body. Some suggestions will also be given for developing a space radiation program in the Republic of Korea.

Norbury, John↗

NASA NTRS2020

The Galactic Cosmic Ray Simulator at the NASA Space Radiation Research Laboratory

With NASA’s new Artemis plan for a sustainable return to the moon, astronauts will once again leave Earth’s protective magnetosphere only to endure higher levels of radiation from galactic cosmic radiation (GCR). The ever penetrating GCR will continue to pose significant health risks especially as lunar missions increase in duration and as NASA sets its aspirations on Mars. The primary risks of concern include carcinogenesis, central nervous system (CNS) effects resulting in potential in-mission cognitive or behavioral impairment and/or late neurological disorders, and degenerative tissue effects including circulatory and heart disease. Characterization and mitigation of these risks requires a significant reduction in the large biological uncertainties of chronic (low-dose rate) heavy ion exposures and the validation of countermeasures in a relevant space environment. Historically, most research on understanding space radiation-induced health risks has been performed using acute exposures of monoenergetic single-ion beams. However, the space radiation environment consists of a wide variety of ion species over a broad energy range. Using the fast beam switching and controls systems technology recently developed at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory, a new era in radiobiological research is possible. NASA has developed the “GCR simulator” to generate a spectrum of ion beams that approximates the primary and secondary GCR field experienced at human organ locations within a deep-space vehicle.

NASA Space Radiation Laboratory↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Galactic Cosmic Ray Simulation at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory – 2021 Update

For missions beyond low Earth orbit to the Moon or Mars, astronauts will encounter a complex space radiation field composed of various ion species with a broad range of energies. Such missions pose significant radiation protection challenges that need to be managed to minimize astronaut exposures and associated health risks. An innovative galactic cosmic ray simulator (GCRsim) was recently developed for the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory at Brookhaven National Laboratory. The GCRsim technology is intended to recapitulate major components of the space radiation environment in a ground-analog laboratory setting. It is used for experimental studies to improve the understanding of biological risks and act as a test bed for counter measure development and validation. Currently, the GCRsim consists of 33 energetic ion beams that collectively simulate the primary and secondary GCR field encountered by astronauts over the broad range of particle types, energies, and linear energy transfer (LET) of interest to human health effects. A virtual workshop was held in December 2020 to assess the status of NASA's GCRsim and attendees examined various aspects of simulator design, with an emphasis on beam selection strategies. Modeling approaches, experimental constraints, areas of consensus, and questions of concern were also discussed in detail. An overview of the workshop considerations and discussion for research strategies that are important for future advancements and applications in space radio biology are presented.

Nafisah Khan↗

NASA NTRS2001

A comparison of mutations induced by accelerated iron particles versus those induced by low earth orbit space radiation in the FEM-3 gene of Caenorhabditis elegans

The fem-3 gene of Caenorhabditis elegans was employed to determine the mutation frequency as well as the nature of mutations induced by low earth orbit space radiation ambient to Space Shuttle flight STS-76. Recovered mutations were compared to those induced by accelerated iron ions generated by the AGS synchrotron accelerator at Brookhaven National Laboratory. For logistical reasons, dauer larvae were prepared at TCU, transported to either Kennedy Space Center or Brookhaven National Laboratory, flown in space or irradiated, returned to TCU and screened for mutants. A total of 25 fem-3 mutants were recovered after the shuttle flight and yielded a mutation frequency of 2.1x10(-5), roughly 3.3-fold higher than the spontaneous rate of 6.3x10(-6). Four of the mutations were homozygous inviable, suggesting that they were large deletions encompassing fem-3 as well as neighboring, essential genes. Southern blot analyses revealed that one of the 25 contained a polymorphism in fem-3, further evidence that space radiation can induce deletions. While no polymorphisms were detected among the iron ion-induced mutations, three of the 15 mutants were homozygous inviable, which is in keeping with previous observations that high LET iron particles generate deficiencies. These data provide evidence, albeit indirect, that an important mutagenic component of ambient space radiation is high LET charged particles such as iron ions.

short duration↗

NASA NTRS2006

The NASA Space Radiation Research Program

We present a comprehensive overview of the NASA Space Radiation Research Program. This program combines basic research on the mechanisms of radiobiological action relevant for improving knowledge of the risks of cancer, central nervous system and other possible degenerative tissue effects, and acute radiation syndromes from space radiation. The keystones of the NASA Program are five NASA Specialized Center's of Research (NSCOR) investigating space radiation risks. Other research is carried out through peer-reviewed individual investigations and in collaboration with the US Department of Energies Low-Dose Research Program. The Space Radiation Research Program has established the Risk Assessment Project to integrate data from the NSCOR s and other peer-reviewed research into quantitative projection models with the goals of steering research into data and scientific breakthroughs that will reduce the uncertainties in current risk projections and developing the scientific knowledge needed for future individual risk assessment approaches and biological countermeasure assessments or design. The NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL) at Brookhaven National Laboratory was created by the Program to simulate space radiation on the ground in support of the above research programs. New results from NSRL will be described.

Cucinotta, Francis A.↗

NASA NTRS2010

Radiation Beamline Testbeds for the Simulation of Planetary and Spacecraft Environments for Human and Robotic Mission Risk Assessment

The Center for Radiation Engineering and Science for Space Exploration (CRESSE) at Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, Texas, USA, is establishing an integrated, multi-disciplinary research program on the scientific and engineering challenges faced by NASA and the international space community caused by space radiation. CRESSE focuses on space radiation research directly applicable to astronaut health and safety during future long term, deep space missions, including Martian, lunar, and other planetary body missions beyond low earth orbit. The research approach will consist of experimental and theoretical radiation modeling studies utilizing particle accelerator facilities including: 1. NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL) at Brookhaven National Laboratory; 2. Proton Synchrotron at Loma Linda University Medical Center; and 3. Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Specifically, CRESSE investigators are designing, developing, and building experimental test beds that simulate the lunar and Martian radiation environments for experiments focused on risk assessment for astronauts and instrumentation. The testbeds have been designated the Bioastronautics Experimental Research Testbeds for Environmental Radiation Nostrum Investigations and Education (BERT and ERNIE). The designs of BERT and ERNIE will allow for a high degree of flexibility and adaptability to modify experimental configurations to simulate planetary surface environments, planetary habitats, and spacecraft interiors. In the nominal configuration, BERT and ERIE will consist of a set of experimental zones that will simulate the planetary atmosphere (Solid CO2 in the case of the Martian surface.), the planetary surface, and sub-surface regions. These experimental zones can be used for dosimetry, shielding, biological, and electronic effects radiation studies in support of space exploration missions. BERT and ERNIE are designed to be compatible with the experimental areas associated with the above facilities. CRESSE has broad expertise in space radiation in the areas of space radiation environment modeling, Monte-Carlo radiation transport modeling, space radiation instrumentation and dosimetry, radiation effects on electronics, and multi-functional composite shielding materials. The BERT and ERNIE testbeds will be utilized in individual and collaborative research incorporating this expertise. The research goal is to maximize the technical readiness level (TRL) of radiation instrumentation for human and robotic missions, optimizing the return value of CRESSE for NASA exploration and international co-operative missions. Outcomes and knowledge from research utilizing BERT and ERNIE will be applied to a variety of scientific and engineering disciplines vital for safe and reliable execution of future space exploration missions, which can be negatively impacted by the space radiation environment. The testbeds will be central to a variety of university educational activities and educational goals of NASA. Specifically, BERT and ERNIE will enhance educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines for engineering and science students at PVAMU, a historically black college/university. Preliminary data on prototype testbed configurations, including simulated lunar regolith (JSC-1A stimulant based on Apollo 11 samples), regolith/polyethylene composites, and dry ice, will be presented to demonstrate the usefulness of BERT and ERNIE in radiation beam line experiments.

Wilkins, Richard↗