Solar energetic particle events

From NewMars

A solar energetic particle event.
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A solar energetic particle event.
The solar cycle.
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The solar cycle.

Solar energetic particle (SEP) events occur sporadically during the 3 years preceding and 4 years following solar maximum. On Mars, they lead to sharp, short-term increases in radiation dose and dose rate. SEP events are directly correlated to solar activity, and they can lead to acute effects, such as nausea and even death.

The Martian Radiation Environment Experiment (MARIE) is measuring SEP levels during the transit to Mars and also at Mars.

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