Uniform design for the multi-layer space radiation shielding optimization

This paper proposes a multi-objective optimization strategy for space radiation shielding using a uniform design approach integrated with Monte Carlo simulations. The study investigates the performance of fifteen hydrogen-rich and high-Z materials arranged in multi-layer configurations under three radiation environments: Galactic Cosmic Rays, Solar Proton Events, and the Van Allen belts. Key control parameters include areal density, layer number, material sequence, and type. A stepwise quadratic regression model was developed to correlate these variables with dose equivalent. Simulation results from MCNP6 and FLUKA validate the shielding effectiveness of the proposed designs. Design 6, featuring a layered structure of aluminum, Kevlar, epoxy, LiH, PBO, and BN, achieves a dose reduction from 322.2 to 101.9 mSv/year. This approach not only enables lightweight and adaptable shielding solutions for deep-space missions but also supports the development of integrated sensing systems. By mitigating radiation-induced drift, noise, and damage in sensitive sensor payloads, the proposed shielding framework lays the groundwork for radiation-hardened sensor modules suitable for planetary exploration, diagnostics, and orbital monitoring applications.