What are the health impacts of space weather phenomena like solar flares?
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Health Impacts of Space Weather Phenomena like Solar Flares
Introduction to Space Weather and Human Health
Space weather refers to the conditions on the Sun and in the solar wind, magnetosphere, ionosphere, and thermosphere that can influence both technological systems and human health. Solar flares, coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and geomagnetic storms are key components of space weather that can have significant impacts on Earth1 3 6.
Solar Flares and Radiation Exposure
Solar flares are intense bursts of radiation from the Sun that can release high-energy particles into space. These particles, known as solar energetic particles (SEPs), can pose serious health risks to astronauts and can also affect people on Earth by increasing radiation exposure. This ionizing radiation can lead to various health issues, including increased risks of cancer and cardiovascular diseases1 2 4.
Geomagnetic Storms and Cardiovascular Health
Geomagnetic storms, caused by CMEs interacting with Earth's magnetosphere, have been linked to adverse cardiovascular effects. Studies have shown a significant correlation between geomagnetic activity and increased hospital admissions for myocardial infarction (heart attacks). For instance, during periods of high geomagnetic activity, there is a notable increase in emergency hospital admissions for acute myocardial infarction1 5.
Neurological and Psychological Effects
Space weather phenomena can also impact neurological and psychological health. Variations in the geomagnetic field have been associated with changes in brain function and mental health. Increased geomagnetic activity has been linked to higher incidences of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. These effects are thought to be due to the influence of geomagnetic fields on the human nervous system1 2 4.
Impacts on Astronauts
Astronauts are particularly vulnerable to space weather effects due to their exposure to higher levels of cosmic radiation outside Earth's protective magnetosphere. Solar flares and galactic cosmic rays (GCRs) pose significant risks, including acute radiation sickness, increased cancer risk, and potential damage to the central nervous system. Protective measures, such as underground shelters on the Moon or Mars, are being considered to mitigate these risks during long-term space missions7 8.
Conclusion
Space weather phenomena like solar flares and geomagnetic storms have profound impacts on human health, affecting cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological well-being. As our reliance on space technology grows and human space exploration advances, understanding and mitigating these health risks becomes increasingly important. Continued research and protective measures are essential to safeguard both astronauts and the general population from the adverse effects of space weather.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
The Impact of Space Weather on Human Health
Space weather, including geomagnetic field variations and increased cosmic ray activity, can have direct or indirect adverse effects on human health and physiology, even when the disturbance is extremely small or equal to zero.
Study of space weather and its risks on human biologic processes
Space weather phenomena can impact human health and the environment, and predicting these events can help minimize potential damages.
Space Weather: The Solar Perspective
Space weather, influenced by solar events, can impact technological systems and human life, with flares, energetic particles, and coronal mass ejections being key factors.
Highly CitedThe Effects of Solar Activity and Geomagnetic Disturbance on Human Health
Solar activity and geomagnetic disturbances can negatively impact human health through geomagnetic storms, cosmic rays, and solar flares.
The association between space weather conditions and emergency hospital admissions for myocardial infarction during different stages of solar activity
Space weather conditions, such as geomagnetic storms and solar proton events, can increase the risk of emergency hospital admissions for myocardial infarction, depending on the strength of the space storm during the studied period.
Observational StudySpace Weather: Physics, Effects and Predictability
Space weather can affect technological systems and endanger human life, with its effects varying from solar flares to CMEs and the magnetosphere-ionosphere-atmosphere system.
Radiation and space flights safety: An insight
Solar flares and galactic cosmic rays pose a serious challenge to space flight safety, requiring careful monitoring and protective measures to maintain human activity in the Moon's hostile environment.
Observations and Impacts of the 10 September 2017 Solar Events at Mars: An Overview and Synthesis of the Initial Results
The 10 September 2017 solar flare and coronal mass ejection significantly impacted Mars' local space weather conditions, including heating of the upper atmosphere, enhanced ion and neutral densities, and enhanced atmospheric escape rates.
Highly CitedSpace weather: the solar perspective
The STEREO mission and future missions like Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter have significantly improved our understanding of solar activity and its effects on Earth and the solar system.
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