ABSTRACT
Cosmic radiation is a natural source of radiation that is present in space. The Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field acts as a shield against cosmic radiation such that radiation levels reduce towards the surface of the Earth and away from the magnetic poles of the Earth. However, at typical passenger jet operating altitudes, cosmic radiation enters the aircraft cabin and poses a risk to the health of both passengers and crew. The risk is small, but as air travel is now normally such a safe activity, cosmic radiation becomes an important hazard. Moreover, the doses of radiation to passengers who fly frequently can be higher than the doses to workers employed in industries that have a more obvious association with radiation, such as radiography and nuclear power production.
