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Article Dans Une Revue Life Sciences in Space Research Année : 2020

Radioprotective effects of induced astronaut torpor and advanced propulsion systems during deep space travel

Résumé

Background. Human metabolic suppression is not a new concept, with 1950s scientific literature and movies demonstrating its potential use for deep space travel (Hock, 1960). An artificially induced state of metabolic suppression in the form of torpor would improve the amount of supplies required and therefore lessen weight and fuel required for missions to Mars and beyond (Choukèr et al., 2019). Transfer habitats for human stasis to Mars have been conceived (Bradford et al., 2018). Evidence suggests that animals, when hibernating, demonstrate relative radioprotection compared to their awake state. Experiments have also demonstrated relative radioprotection in conditions of hypothermia as well as during sleep (Bellesi et al., 2016 and Andersen et al., 2009). Circadian rhythm disrupted cells also appear to be more susceptible to radiation damage compared to those that are under a rhythmic control (Dakup et al., 2018). An induced torpor state for astronauts on deep space missions may provide a biological radioprotective state due to a decreased metabolism and hypothermic conditions. A regular enforced circadian rhythm might further limit DNA damage from radiation. The As Low As Reasonably Achievable (A.L.A.R.A.) radiation protection concept defines time, distance and shielding as ways to decrease radiation exposure. Whilst distance cannot be altered in space and shielding either passively or actively may be beneficial, time of exposure may be drastically decreased with improved propulsion systems. Whilst chemical propulsion systems have superior thrust to other systems, they lack high changes in velocity and fuel efficiency which can be achieved with nuclear or electric based propulsion systems. Radiation toxicity could be limited by reduced transit times, combined with the radioprotective effects of enforced circadian rhythms during a state of torpor or hibernation.
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Dates et versions

hal-02868066 , version 1 (15-06-2020)

Identifiants

Citer

Tim Squire, A. Ryan, Samuel Bernard. Radioprotective effects of induced astronaut torpor and advanced propulsion systems during deep space travel. Life Sciences in Space Research, 2020, 26, pp.105-113. ⟨10.1016/j.lssr.2020.05.005⟩. ⟨hal-02868066⟩
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