Optimization of radiation shielding scheme for Jupiter spacecraft based on genetic algorithm

Abstract

Jupiter is one of the targets for deep space exploration, but it has a harsher radiation environment than Earth. In order to reduce the damage of the radiation environment to the spacecraft, the radiation shielding scheme should be optimized. In this paper, the main optimization objective is to reduce the total radiation dose after shielding, and we balanced the areal density, thickness and shielding effect. Combined with genetic algorithm and MULASSIS, the optimal design of multilayer radiation shielding scheme of Jupiter spacecraft is studied. Through this method, the optimal shielding scheme - Mg-Pb-Mg-Al four-layer shielding structure is obtained. Compared with the single-layer shielding scheme of Galileo and other spacecraft, the optimal multi-layer shielding scheme can reduce the material mass by at least 14.4%. This design method could also be combined with the actual Jupiter exploration mission, providing a reference for the shielding design of deep space exploration spacecraft in the future.