Solar outbursts endanger the Artemis mission
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have detected a cosmic neutrino in the Mediterranean, marking the first time such an event has been recorded in this region. This detection, made by the ANTARES neutrino telescope, provides a new window into the universe and offers a better understanding of its mysteries.
The discovery of cosmic neutrinos could lead to significant advancements in astrophysics and particle physics. However, this news comes at a time when NASA is particularly concerned about the increased solar radiation on the Moon, a factor that could pose a significant risk to the Artemis 3 mission, which aims to mark the return of humans to the Moon.
The Moon's surface exposes astronauts to a thousand times higher doses of solar radiation than a person on Earth during a massive solar flare. This dose is ten times greater than what is recommended, indicating a significant risk.
In response, NASA is taking proactive measures to protect the Artemis 3 astronauts from solar flares and increased solar radiation. These preparations include advanced space weather forecasting models, continuous solar monitoring and alerts, operational protocols for astronaut safety, engineering advances in spacecraft materials, and a focus on landing at the lunar South Pole.
Advanced AI modeling, such as NASA and IBM’s Surya Heliophysics Foundational Model, is being used to predict solar flares up to two hours in advance with improved accuracy. This information helps mission controllers anticipate solar storms and alert crews accordingly.
Continuous solar monitoring and alerts are provided through joint NASA and NOAA programs, which offer near-real-time CME data and keep watch on solar activity. Instruments on satellites like GOES-19, SOHO, and future lunar Gateway payloads contribute to this monitoring.
Operational protocols for astronaut safety include taking shelter in designated shielded areas of the spacecraft or lunar habitat to minimize exposure. These measures are based on understanding past solar storm events, such as the 1972 solar storm which could have harmed Apollo astronauts.
Engineering advances focus on improving spacecraft materials and heat shields to withstand harsh space environment conditions during reentry and transit. While these measures focus more on thermal protection during entry, they also offer some protection against solar radiation.
Artemis III plans include landing at the lunar South Pole with safety as a priority. However, the potential risks from increasing solar flare intensity remain a concern continually addressed through monitoring, predictive tools, and protective design.
NASA plans to send the first humans to the Moon and establish a base there by 2030 as part of the Artemis program. The Artemis 3 mission is expected in 2026, the same year as the peak of the solar cycle. Predicting solar flares with sufficient time margin by 2026 will allow astronauts on the Moon to be warned and take shelter.
The most powerful solar flare since 2017, classified as X2.8, occurred in December 2023. This danger is taken into account in the space domain, particularly in the Artemis program. The detection of this cosmic neutrino and the preparations being made by NASA underscore the importance of understanding and mitigating these risks to ensure the safety of future lunar explorers.
The detection of cosmic neutrinos, a breakthrough in space-and-astronomy, may lead to advancements in environmental-science and technology. Meanwhile, NASA is taking proactive measures to address the potential risks from increased solar radiation on the Moon during the Artemis 3 mission, using technology like advanced AI modeling, vast networks for continuous solar monitoring, and operational protocols for astronaut safety.
