Cosmic Rays May Damage The Brains Of Astronauts, Suggests A New Study On Mice

Cosmic rays might damage the brains of astronauts, says a new study. The study looked into the effects of high-energy radiation on mouse neurons and concluded that mice when exposed to radiation similar to what is found in space start degrading brain cells and perform worse in cognitive tests.

"This is surprising, and it suggests that NASA has a new complication to consider when they send astronauts into deep space," Charles Limoli of the University of California said. "Over the course of a two- to three-year mission, the damage would accumulate. To mitigate it, we need to understand it."

Radiation is a clear concern when it comes to putting humans on Mars. The levels of radiation on the red planet is similar to those detected on International Space Station but it would be experienced for a much longer period of time explorers on Mars.

"NASA recognizes the importance of understanding the effects of space radiation on humans during long-duration missions beyond Earth orbit, and these studies and future studies will continue to inform our understanding as we prepare for the journey to Mars," Stephanie Schierholz of NASA said.

The study hopes to find a medication to counter the effects of cosmic rays on astronauts's brain.

"The dose rates they are using are approximately a million times greater than what astronauts would experience on a trip to Mars," Robert Zubrin of the Mars Society said.

The study was published in the journal Science Advances.