The phrase cosmic radiation is a metaphorical term covering all of the universe’s radioactive sources. As the atmosphere decays via increased carbon pollution and other chemical toxins, it will less and less protect us from cosmic invaders of greater energy. Fortunately, our atmosphere here on Earth is among the most effective radiation shielding – and is free. That is one of the causes why the deterioration of the Earth’s atmosphere is so crucial. Cosmic radiation is an ionizing radiation type that may change human DNA. However, the bulk of the cosmic radiation that we get from outer space is absorbed in these extremely low doses. Therefore, cosmic radiation is comparable to other “daily” radiation sources – such as mobile phones and microwaves. Cosmic radiation is a multiple radiation collectionThe below are among the radiation sources and kinds that lead us across outer space. Thankfully due to their contact with the atmosphere (which serves as a super filter), particles get to our planet in a far less powerful way. That’s why they don’t hurt or make us sick. Gamma Rays Gamma rays are (in scientific terminology) a greater spectrum and frequency of “electromagnetic radiation” than x-rays. While gamma radiation may be reproduced in a laboratory, the cosmic versions of gamma radiation are generated by gamma rays (GRBs). These are the most energetic type of light and generate enough energy to illuminate a whole galaxy for a few seconds. Microwave RadiationThat’s what people usually speak about when they talk about cosmic radiation. The microwave background radiation, according to physlink.com, “consists of extremely low-energy photons (energy of about 2,78 Kelvin), which are peaked in the microwave region and remains of the age of the universe, at approximately 200,000 years old.” The microwave background radiation types are essentially harmless when they reach humans. PhotonsAll bodies in the cosmos produce photons in particles and waveforms. This includes our solar (more about it next), stars, almost stellar objects, etc. Much of the photons from these bright objects that reach our atmosphere are so low in energy that we don’t have to concern about them. Some of them are considerably more energy-efficient than others. Sun’s UV radiationUV radiation from the sun is mostly the only kind of cosmic radiation we need to worry about. Due to their intensity and near closeness to the planet, UV particles can enter the atmosphere at such high energy that atmospheric interference/protection for the bare skin is not adequate. Therefore, UV exposure produces sunburns and malignancies of the skin, which may lead to other cancers. This is why it is essential to wear safe clothes, caps, sunglasses and sunscreen in exposed skin regions, especially during peak and peak seasons (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.). |