Understanding radiation risks for exploration and Earth
ESA provides scientists with opportunities to study the effects of ionising radiation relevant to Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Moon & Mars Sciences. These studies improve radiation risk models, inform shielding strategies, and support countermeasure development for future missions, while also advancing terrestrial applications such as charged-particle cancer therapy and low-dose exposure assessment.
Our Facilities
ESA collaborates with leading European accelerator facilities to provide beam time for radiation research:
- GANIL facility, Caen, France (link here)
- AGOR KVI-CART, Groningen, The Netherlands (link here)
- HIT, Heidelberg, Germany (link here)
- UPTD, Dresden, Germany (link here)
- Trento Proton Therapy Center – TIFPA, Trento, Italy (link here)
ESA also works closely with GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research (Darmstadt, Germany) to offer additional beam-time opportunities.
Impact
Data from IBPER studies:
- Improve radiation risk assessment models for space missions
- Support shielding and protective technology development
- Translate to Earth-based applications in medicine and safety
How to participate
Submit proposals via the following link: Open Space Innovation Platform – OSIP – Channel: HRE Exploration Science CORA – Ground-Based Facility (GBF)
For Announcements of Opportunities for Investigations into Biological and Physical Effects of Radiation at GSI, please keep be advised that calls are released through OSIP every few years.
Benefits beyond space
Radiation research not only ensures astronaut safety but also contributes to oncology advancements, radiation protection standards, and public health.
