Monte Carlo Analysis of dosimetric issues in space exploration

Introduction The radiation protection is of paramount importance in the planning of human exploration activities in space. The related risks must be considered with respect two aspects: devising a proper shielding and answer to the requirement of an effective dosimetry evaluation during astronaut activities. Both aspects have been considered using as reference tool the Monte Carlo code MCNP 6.2. As case study a possible application to the NASA Artemis program has been chosen. The project aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon, envisioning the realization of an outpost that will serve as a steppingstone for space exploration endeavors. Methods A Class III shelter, ISRU derived habitat with local resources available on the Moon, has been designed through computational methods and topology optimization techniques, and analyzed in terms of radiation shielding performances and structural behavior. Results The outpost must be able to withstand temperature variations, micrometeorite impacts, and the absence of a substantial atmosphere. Any solution studied to respect the constraints must devise robust and innovative materials and techniques to create habitats that have as goal the shielding from the Galactic Cosmic Rays and from the solar flares to provide a safe and habitable environment at the time scales scheduled for the mission. Resource utilization is crucial for sustaining long-duration missions on the Moon as envisaged in the ARTEMIS program. This implies the outpost design must incorporate strategies for extracting and utilizing local resources. Conclusions The design of a lunar outpost for the NASA Artemis program is a complex undertaking that involves addressing challenges related to lunar environment, resource utilization, power generation, logistics, and crew well-being. Overcoming such challenges will pave the way for the establishment of a sustainable human presence on the Moon and serve as a crucial leap for future space exploration missions.