Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30816: Unveiling the Secrets of Plasma Dust in Space: Fazovye Perekhody-PK-1

The Fazovye Perekhody-PK-1 experiment aboard the Russian segment of the International Space Station investigates a mysterious and beautiful phenomenon—plasma dust crystals. Led by Vladimir Fortov, this physical science experiment dives into how fine dust particles interact in a plasma environment under microgravity.

On Earth, gravity limits the way we can observe these interactions. In space, however, without sedimentation and convection, researchers can see structures form and change phase—like crystals turning into liquids and vice versa—at a microscopic level. This allows scientists to model behavior similar to that seen in atomic and molecular systems, effectively turning the ISS into a giant physics lab.

The data helps physicists understand processes like crystallization, melting, and even turbulence, which play a role in fields from astrophysics to materials science. It's a cornerstone for future studies on how matter organizes itself, and the findings could influence technologies back on Earth, such as semiconductors and nanotechnology.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in astronomy, cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.