Cosmic Ray Shielding, Solar Power, and Planetary Habitability

Speaker

 Alaa Salah Afifi | Keplar Space University

Abstract

This research links cosmic ray shielding with the solar power and the solar heliosphere to improve planetary habitability and enable safer exploration. It covers the natural shielding properties of the heliosphere against galactic cosmic rays (GCR) and innovative solar satellite technologies with improved GCR protection and related power delivery to planetary bases. Events from solar eruptions and their propagation consequences on Earth, Mars, and beyond are studied using the Graduated Cylindrical Shell and Wang-Sheeley-Arge-Enlil coronal modeling tools. The results draw attention to the fact that advanced Solar Power Satellites need to be equipped with adequate shielding for mitigation of radiation and long-term energy sustenance. Suggestions for long-term infrastructure on the Moon and Mars need to be proposed to address the problems of dust storms, radiation, and temperature fluctuation extremes.

More About the Speaker

Alaa Salah Afifi is an a Master's student in Planetary Science at Kepler Space University, who specializes in open science, green rocketry, and deep space exploration. She is featured in The African Network of Women in Astronomy (AFNWA) flagship AFNWA Story Book, in celebration of her contribution to space science and research, combining influential young women in astronomy all over Africa. Alaa has contributed to such major space missions as the Andromeda Project of the Deep Space Initiative and as an Expert Review Board Member at NASA Lifelines, lending innovation and scientific integrity. Aside from research, Alaa is also an avid space outreach and education supporter, serving as Space Generation Advisory Council mentor and women in aerospace for Women in Aerospace Barcelona, curriculum developer for Canada's Mars Explorer Program, and NASA Zooniverse projects as a citizen scientist.

Session Video