Researchers at Ghent University in Belgium are studying the use of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) to protect against cosmic radiation. They are able to absorb and retain water, making them ideal candidates for protective barriers.

Astronauts' long stays outside of Earth's protective atmosphere and magnetic field expose them to high levels of radiation. One day in space can be equivalent to a year's worth of radiation exposure on Earth, which poses a serious problem for future missions to Mars, where astronauts will be away from Earth for months at a time.

Hydrogels created on a 3D printer are lightweight and safe. Even if the protective layer is damaged, no water leaks out, which is especially important when working with sensitive electronics. Studies show that it is a good protective barrier against radiation.

According to the authors of the project, this technology can find application not only in manned missions, but also in unmanned spacecraft, for example, as radiation shields or water tanks. The European Space Agency (ESA) also noted the potential in this technology