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NASA is seeking a magnetic field computational design tool (MFCDT) software package that can combine radiation and magnetic field inputs for Monte Carlo Analysis (MCNP or GEANT4) to investigate active shielding designs and determine deep space radiation protection. Solutions must use established radiation codes. Optimally, the software package would allow quick 3D analysis of various fields and geometries.

Background:

Magnetic shielding may be essential for human spaceflight in deep space to counter radiation effects by reducing the radiation exposure inside a habitat. A tool that can quickly create inputs from active shield designs to radiation analysis software (MCNP and GEANT4) is necessary for finding optimal shielding configurations. Currently, radiation and magnetic field inputs for the Monte Carlo Analysis must be hand crafted which is both slow and time-consuming. A software package that can conduct fast and automatic 3D analysis of radiation and magnetic fields will allow for optimal configurations of active magnetic shields.

Constraints:

Software solution will:

  • Be able to input Solar System magnetic field (NOAA/NASA defined) and Vehicle magnetic field (A function of the vehicle designer). However, no standard format exists but should be flexible to input EXCEL based and text based definitions.
  • Be able to sum natural and vehicle magnetic fields

Output must:

  • Generate (x,y,z,t -> l,m,n,T) or (x,y,z,t -> Tx,Ty,Tz) database and 3rd order accurate interpolation schemes in a subroutine that can be used in MCNP (FORTRAN) and GEANT4 (C++)
    • 3-D Magnetic Field Map (Form 1 and Form 2 can be mixed for natural and vehicle)
      • Form 1: (x,y,z,t ->Tx,Ty,Tz) where (Tx,Ty,Tz) can be a function of time
      • Form 2: (x,y,z,t -> l,m,n,T) where (l,m,n,T) can be a function of time
      • Variables:
        • (x,y,z,t) – three Cartesian space coordinates and time
        • (l,m,n) – direction cosines along the three coordinates
        • (Tx,Ty,Tz) – magnetic field strength along the three coordinates
        • (T) – magnetic field strength at the point (x,y,z,t)
  • Available FORTRAN/C++ compilers are GNU, Intel, and PGI
  • Must be computationally efficient (x86 chipset with AVX+ vectors)
  • Not use PHITS or FLUKA (too many limitations)

Possible Solution Areas:

Academia, Industry, or Government entities worldwide who is active in the field of magnetic field modelling.

Desired outcome of the solution:

Looking for partners who are developing or can make the software.

Field of use and intended applications:

Space exploration


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