Bone mechanical property changes in rats exposed to Galactic Cosmic Radiation

Abstract

As NASA prepares to venture deeper into space and increase spaceflight duration, sources of potential harm for astronaut health must be explored. Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR), a primary source of radiation from the Milky Way, is comprised of atoms accelerating at such high speeds, its particles are capable of passing through any material, such as spacecraft and human skin. GCR is ionizing, meaning DNA can be damaged, and there. may be oxidative damage to bone tissue, when its rays pass through the body. As this type of radiation is near impossible to shield against, it is crucial to understand how the mechanical properties of bone are affected following exposure, and the duration of effects. Further insight into these consequences will help to develop counteractive safety measures to maintain the well-being of astronauts. This study conducted mechanical testing on rat femurs exposed to GCR radiation after a 180-day recovery period to understand how GCR exposure may affect astronaut bone health six months after space flight.