It can be accurately asserted that there exists a danger due to radiation exposure to those who travel in space. As much of the cosmic radiation is deflected, absorbed, or otherwise filtered by our atmosphere, we are generally protected from their direct effects. Astronauts, however, are put in the direct, unfiltered line of these rays, many of which are able to penetrate solid material and pass through the astronaut’s body. While we understand some radiation to be relatively safe, such exposure as is found in space has the potential to cause a significant amount of future harm, particularly to those participating in the increasingly long missions and as we begin to contemplate much longer-term adventures with the International Space Station and perhaps to Mars. The sources of cosmic radiation are varied and present a true challenge to those who engage in the design of protective systems. It is the purpose of this paper to argue for greater caution when sending humans into space specifically in the area of protections against radiation due to the imminent harm it presents.
