AstroRad vest cuts lunar radiation exposure

A study published in Science Advances reports that the AstroRad radiation-shielding vest, tested on a manikin during United States — NASA's Artemis I mission, could reduce astronaut radiation exposure by about 60% during a severe solar storm like the 1972 event and by nearly 40% in a 1989-type storm. The vest, developed by StemRad and Lockheed Martin, covers vulnerable organs and is intended for use during high-radiation solar events. The study, led by StemRad's Jordan Houri, used data from the Artemis I manikins Zohar and Helga, and was funded by United States — NASA, the Germany — German Aerospace Center, and the Israel — Israel Space Agency. The findings support future lunar and Mars missions, where radiation risk is higher.