Solid state neutron dosimeter for space applications

One of the most important contributions to the radiation exposure of astronauts engaged in space flight is the significant flux of high energy neutrons arising from both primary and secondary sources of ionizing radiation. A solid state neutron sensor capable of being incorporated into a very compact flight instrument to provide high-quality realtime measurement of this important radiation flux is being developed. The dosimeter uses a special, high-neutron-sensitivity p-i-n diode that is insensitive to the other forms of ionizing radiation. The dosimeter will have the ability to measure and record neutron dose over a range of 5 mrd to several rd over a flight of up to 30 days. The performance characteristics of the p-i-n diode with detailed description of the overall dosimeter are presented.<>