Why Everest Climbers are at Higher Risk of Cosmic Rays
At the Mount Everest summit, there is significantly less atmosphere to protect you from solar radiation. During a Mount Everest expedition, climbers are exposed to levels of cosmic rays normally seen by airline pilots.
The atmosphere at the Everest summit is only 30% as thick as at sea level. This means more UV-B and cosmic radiation reach your skin and eyes, a major concern for long Everest trekking trips.
During periods of high solar activity, the radiation levels on the Mount Everest summit ridge can spike. Expedition leaders monitor solar weather just as closely as wind speeds for safety.
This is why Category 4 eyewear and industrial-strength sunblock are non-negotiable. Without them, you aren't just getting a sunburn; you are sustaining cellular damage from space radiation.
Standing on the Mount Everest summit is as close to space as most humans will ever get. Respect the physical and astronomical forces at play during your expedition.
