Abstract: An apparatus and method for shielding against radiation and providing thermal insulation is disclosed. The apparatus includes multiple layers including an inner layer, an outer layer, and a radiation shielding layer composed of materials such a tungsten sheet, multiple tungsten sheets, staggered rows of tungsten rods, and/or a polymer radiation shield composed of a polymer and radiation attenuating material. Insulation layers may also be incorporated into the apparatus. The method for protecting against radiation includes the steps of providing a radiation shielding apparatus and securing such apparatus to a radiation emitting structure.