Space tourists at risk of DNA damage and cancer

By Isobel Williams via SWNS

Space tourists may be at risk of DNA damage and cancer, a new study has found.

Experts are urging space tour operators of the future such as Virgin Galactic to protect their passengers and crews from the risks of space weather radiation exposure.

The Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field protect people on the ground from exposure to unpredictable surges of electrically charged particles coming from the sun.

However, there can be dramatic increases in potential radiation exposure at higher altitudes, such as those envisaged for space tourist flights.

The experts from the University of Surrey say that space weather cannot yet be predicted and can lead to health risks such as damage to DNA, and it could lead to cancer.

They note that, despite this, space tourists currently receive little information and few warnings.

The study, published in Space Policy, makes a series of recommendations to help minimize the negative side effects of space travel.

Lead author Chris Rees, a research student at Surrey Space Centre, said: “Although space tourism is very niche, it will quickly grow as an industry.

“With increased flights, more people could be impacted by cosmic radiation exposure, especially during rapid changes in space weather.

“We’re recommending how regulators and industry should work together to keep people safe without unnecessarily holding back innovation.”

These recommendations include; regulatory bodies ensuring regulations are practical, and effective and reflect technological advances; introduction of international standards to ensure consistency; clear safety information; and close monitoring of cosmic radiation during short space flights.

Co-author John Catchpole, a space law expert at Foot Anstey LLP, added: “International action is needed by regulators, but meanwhile, the early movers in the sector, like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin, need to watch themselves and their passengers.

“The principles of informed consent mean stronger warnings and clearer information may be required.”