title: Overview of NASA's space radiation research program.
abstract: NASA is developing the knowledge required to accurately predict and to efficiently manage radiation risk in space. The strategy employed has three research components: (1) ground-based simulation of space radiation components to develop a science-based understanding of radiation risk; (2) space-based measurements of the radiation environment on planetary surfaces and interplanetary space, as well as use of space platforms to validate predictions; and, (3) implementation of countermeasures to mitigate risk. NASA intends to significantly expand its support of ground-based radiation research in line with completion of the Booster Applications Facility at Brookhaven National Laboratory, expected in summer of 2003. A joint research solicitation with the Department of Energy is under way and other interagency collaborations are being considered. In addition, a Space Radiation Initiative has been submitted by the Administration to Congress that would provide answers to most questions related to the International Space Station within the next 10 years.
authors.affiliation: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Washington, DC, USA. wschimmerling@hq.nasa.gov
authors.forename: Walter
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Schimmerling
mesh_terms: D003359:Cosmic Radiation; D006801:Humans; D016730:Program Development; D011522:Protons; D011834:Radiation Monitoring; D011835:Radiation Protection / Q000379:methods*; D011853:Radiobiology; D012106:Research; D019445:Solar Activity; D013026:Space Flight; D014481:United States; D018557:United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration
chemical_list: D011522:Protons