How does radiation exposure differ in space compared to Earth's surface?

Radiation exposure in space is indeed higher in energy and intensity compared to what is experienced on Earth's surface. This increased exposure is primarily due to the lack of atmosphere in space, which serves as a protective shield against various forms of radiation, including cosmic rays and solar particle events. On Earth, the atmosphere, along with the magnetic field, absorbs and deflects a significant amount of this incoming radiation, thereby reducing the intensity and energy levels that reach the surface.

In space, astronauts and equipment are directly exposed to these high-energy particles without the protective barriers that exist on Earth. This is why understanding and mitigating the risks associated with space radiation is crucial for the safety and health of astronauts during missions, especially those beyond Earth's protective atmosphere, like missions to the Moon or Mars.