Meta Materials as Cosmic Ray Shielding for Spacecraft?

AI Thread Summary
Meta materials, while promising for applications like cloaking, are not expected to provide superior shielding against cosmic rays compared to traditional materials. Cosmic rays consist of high-energy charged particles, which ordinary spacecraft walls can effectively block. The properties of meta materials primarily influence electromagnetic radiation, making them ineffective against charged particles. The discussion also raises questions about their potential effectiveness against solar radiation, but the consensus leans towards conventional materials being sufficient. Overall, current advancements in meta materials do not indicate a significant advantage for cosmic ray shielding in spacecraft.
Ian J.
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While thinking about the recent-ish developments in meta materials for 'cloaking' systems, a thought struck me: could a meta material or combination of meta materials (probably of a somewhat more advanced state than they currently are) be used as a form of shielding from cosmic rays of various kinds for a spacecraft traveling to other planets in our solar system?

TIA

Ian
 
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Meta does not mean magic. They would do no better - and no worse - than ordinary materials in this regard.
 
Since cosmic rays are high energy charged particles, the walls of a spacecraft will suffice. The cloaking system is designed to affect electromagnetic radiation - no effect on charged particles other than as matter itself.
 
So for basic particles, no use. What about solar radiation?
 

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