To overcome deadly surface radiation, where must human habitats likely be constructed on Europa?
Answer
Under the surface, utilizing the moon’s icy crust as a natural shield
Because the surface radiation levels are life-threatening, the required engineering solution involves building habitats deep beneath the surface. The thick icy crust acts as the most effective and readily available natural radiation shield, attenuating the lethal flux down to manageable levels. This approach minimizes the vast material mass required for artificial shielding and uses the moon's own structure to protect inhabitants, which is considered essential for long-duration stays.
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