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MAGNETO-IONIZATION SPACECRAFT SHIELD FOR INTERPLANETARY TRAVEL

ORAL

Abstract

Lethal radiation, the strains of low gravity on the human body, and micrometeoroids moving fast enough to puncture metal; these are just some of the challenges facing manned interplanetary travel. MISSFIT is a multi-department, student-led collaboration working to develop designs to combat these issues. To combat radiation, we are testing different combinations of materials to attenuate electromagnetic radiation and creating a magnetic field to deflect charged particles or direct them into bubbles of gas where they can be safely neutralized. For artificial gravity, we have devised a method of oscillation that reduces the necessary size of the spacecraft, thus making it more efficient and cost-effective. We are creating an apparatus to test the viability of this method. We have simulated the cardiovascular system under the conditions of artificial gravity. For the micrometeoroids, we have developed a simulation to test high-velocity impacts. This collaboration is in its third year of work and has developed a proof of concept that the shielding method is effective. Our current research focuses on optimizing specific parameters.

Presenters

  • Noah S Peterson

    Drake University

Authors

  • Noah S Peterson

    Drake University

  • Trevin Detwiler

    Drake University

  • Matthew Holcomb

    Drake University

  • Jackson Kilburg

    Drake University

  • Alejandro Lobo

    Drake University

  • Jack Messerli-Wallace

    Drake University

  • Sam Mortenson

    Drake University

  • Gabriel Summers

    Drake University

  • Daniel Viscarra

    Drake Univeristy, Drake University

  • Mateo Viscarra

    Drake University

  • Meredith Lutrell

    Drake University

  • Athanasios Petridis

    Drake University

  • David Atri Schuller

    Drake University

  • Justin Brutger

    Drake University

  • Keegan M Finger

    Drake University

  • Catherine M Huber

    Drake University

  • Luke Hofmann

    Drake University

  • Julie LaFranzo

    Drake University

  • Katrina R Sletten

    Drake University

  • Lorien MacEnulty

    Drake University

  • Zach T Wellens

    Drake University

  • Gavin P Menning

    Drake University

  • Timothy D Kutnink

    Drake University