What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to identify optimal electrostatic field configurations to effectively shield astronauts from ionizing radiation during space missions.

May 9, 2026Open Access

Update on Active Shielding Concept Using Electrostatic Fields

Key Points

This research aims to identify optimal electrostatic field configurations to effectively shield astronauts from ionizing radiation during space missions.
Used custom-built simulation tools for fast GPU-based computing of field configurations.
Conducted measurements at Brookhaven National Lab using a wind tunnel setup for different test articles.
Developed scaling laws for efficiency of shielding and mitigation of in-space plasma interactions.
Identified that a 1 MV applied voltage reduces the radiation dose by approximately 50% from 1989 SPE.
Power requirements can be reduced from megawatts to tens of kilowatts.
Prototype high-voltage power supply design capable of reaching 300 kV has been validated.

Abstract

We have investigated different electrostatic field configurations to identify the optimal configuration to maximize the number of safe days astronauts can be exposed to ionizing radiation (SEP and CGR) during exploration missions. The general concept is based on principles of charged particle shielding by Earth's geomagnetic field, i.e., particle deflection. We have utilized custom-built simulation tools for fast GPU-based computing of different configurations and measurements performed at the Brookhaven National Lab Tandem facility using an analogous "wind tunnel" setup. This has allowed us to develop scaling laws by directly measuring the shielding efficacy of scaled-down three-dimensional test articles, resulting in methods to mature technology to effectively scale up to both in-space particle energies and physical shield size (mass, power) required to reduce the cumulative radiation exposure to humans. In addition, work was conducted to develop ways to mitigate the interaction with the in-space plasma environment. Measurements were performed on several mitigation methods. Results showed the possibility of reducing power requirements from megawatts to tens of kilowatts. Lastly, a prototype high-voltage power supply design capable of reaching 300 kV was investigated and verified with a simple single electrostatic dipole configuration (SPRL). We find that the currently identified configuration will reduce the dose from the 1989 SPE by approximately 50% with an applied voltage of 1 MV and a power consumption of ~10 kW. The next step in concept maturation is a planned large-scale trade study to identify required support structures, electrode charging scenarios, operational concepts, etc., to implement and operate the concept as a full-size three-dimensional shield around a Mars transit vehicle or surface habitat. This trade will allow for mass/power estimates of a full-scale shield and the identification of current technologies to support the construction of an active radiation shield.

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