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Enabling Smart Computations to study space RADiation effects

Objective

This project aims at establishing a fundamental and applied research program via the set up of a new “virtual modeling lab” which will open the path towards a change of paradigm in the modelling of Space Weather impact. The project indeed aims at putting forward a next-generation of space radiation predictive tool, based on the combination of Space environment tools and high performance, parameter free (first-principles) approaches from the materials science/chemical-physics community, able to calculate with predictive power both the materials’ and the DNA damag In particular, by combining the SPENVIS tool with a highly efficient first-principles materials modelling tool (SIESTA), the new approach will be used to study the degradation of solar cells and the DNA damage for a LEO orbit and an interplanetary travel, under different worst-case Space Weather scenarios. On the basis of the new results, which can disentangle different microscopic effects contrary to the often overall response split out by particles transport tools, we will be able to redefine in detail the “worst case scenarios” in Space Weather, for each sub-parts of a solar cell and different DNA segments, with respect to current definitions. By applying data-mining/smart search algorithms we will be able to propose possible radiation-resistant materials and, on the basis of a new DNA damage descriptor, possible mitigating agents acting on specific parts of the DNA. A first-principles database of key quantities for the interaction of space radiation and materials/biological samples will be set up, to be used both for future, first-principles-only, studies or for current studies improving the input to Monte Carlo tools. The study will pose the basis to enable smart future architectures, based on high performance computing, to better understand the risks posed by Space Weather and to search, with predictive power, possible game-changing solutions to enhance the lifetime of space missions.

Coordinator

INSTITUT ROYAL D'AERONOMIE SPATIALEDE BELGIQUE
Net EU contribution
€ 639 657,50
Address
Avenue Circulaire 3
1180 Bruxelles
Belgium

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Region
Région de Bruxelles-Capitale/Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest Région de Bruxelles-Capitale/ Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest Arr. de Bruxelles-Capitale/Arr. Brussel-Hoofdstad
Activity type
Research Organisations
Other funding
€ 0,00

Participants (3)

ASOCIACION CENTRO DE INVESTIGACION COOPERATIVA EN NANOCIENCIAS CIC NANOGUNE
Spain
Net EU contribution
€ 274 062,50
Address
Tolosa Hiribidea 76
20018 San Sebastian

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Region
Noreste País Vasco Gipuzkoa
Activity type
Research Organisations
Other funding
€ 0,00
THE QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY OF BELFAST
United Kingdom
Net EU contribution
€ 306 250,00
Address
University Road Lanyon Building
BT7 1NN Belfast

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Region
Northern Ireland Northern Ireland Belfast
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Other funding
€ 0,00
UNIVERSITE DE LILLE
France
Net EU contribution
€ 42 793,75
Address
42 Rue Paul Duez
59000 Lille

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Region
Hauts-de-France Nord-Pas de Calais Nord
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Other funding
€ 0,00