Cancer is the topic of this chapter. Radiation causes cancer. In particular, cosmic
radiation, gamma rays, muons and x-rays are carcinogenic. The link between colon cancer
and space-based radiation was discussed. A number of specific causal mechanisms were
considered, including free radicals, HZE nuclei, and lack of antioxidants. Claims that the
outer space environment is characterized by high levels of radiation were discussed, along
with the contrary perspective. It was claimed that radiation is the biggest risk to spacefarers. It
was documented that space radiation is particularly carcinogenic. The radiation implications
of the Mars Mission were discussed. The efficacy and desirability of Earth-based vs spacebased
research was examined. Solutions to space-induced cancer were analyzed, including
shielding, antioxidants and prevention.
Keywords: Acute effects, antioxidants, beta-carotine, carcinogenic, central nervous
system, chromosones, cosmic radiation, free radical, gamma ray, Georgetown
Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Curiosity moon rover, Hiroshima, ion,
ionization, Mars, Mars Society, muon, subatomic, wavelength, 56Fe.
