Did Cosmic Rays Lead Apollo Astronauts to Witness Strange Lights 50 Years Ago?

According to a Science News article from May 12, 1973, the light flashes that were observed by Apollo astronauts have been linked to high-energy, heavy cosmic particles (HZE) passing through the eyes. However, a recent report indicates that such particles do not pose a significant threat to short-duration trips to the moon or Earth's orbit, such as those taken during the Skylab mission.

The mechanism responsible for producing these flashes remains a mystery, but there are various theories. Some scientists believe the particles emit radiation that triggers the perception of light, while others think they may manipulate nerve cells to create the illusion. Regardless of their origin, the flashes still present a challenge for astronauts and have been reported by 80% of NASA and European Space Agency crew members in 2006. The long-term impact of this phenomenon on astronaut health remains unclear, especially as NASA is preparing for extended stays on Mars and the moon. Scientists are exploring new ways of shielding against cosmic rays, such as using portable magnetic shields, to protect space travelers from harm.

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