Low cost Dosimeter Module for MVA Lunar Lander Mission

Abstract

Understanding the lunar radiation environment is crucial for future space exploration missions, as the lack of atmospheric and magnetic shielding allows charged particles of varying energies and origins to penetrate the surface of the Moon. In a space radiation environment, it is common practice to use radiation dosimeters to measure absorbed dose and dose rate.      In this study, the payload will include a radiation dosimeter capable of measuring the radiation intensity at the landing site's surface. The design concept and implementation of a radiation readout system for the real-time measurement of gamma absorbed dosage and dose rate at the surface of the landing area for the MVA mission are based on a photodiode sensor that is commercially available and will be used as a gamma radiation sensor. The module experienced low levels of activity (Cs¹³⁷, Co⁶⁰, and Sr⁹⁰). The performance of the photodiode-based module has been demonstrated by the Geiger counter. Due to its low cost and high sensitivity, the radiation module of this type has clear advantages.