06. Will there be exposure to radiation? Are there any harmful effects? (A K2S Question)
From The Space Library
Yes, there is exposure to radiation in space. Space radiation is different from x-radiation or the kind of radiation you find in nuclear power plants. Space radiation consists of sub-atomic particles (nuclei, protons, electrons, neutrons) traveling almost at the speed of light. Space radiation can cause sickness and death if you are exposed to very high levels over a short time and may also cause long term health effects like cataracts of the eyes and cancers.
Answer provided by Col. USAF Dr. Richard S. Williams
Question and Answer extracted from the book Kids to Space - by Lonnie Schorer
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