Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30818: Fazovye Perekhody-PK-3: A New Chapter in Dusty Plasma Studies

The third installment in the Fazovye Perekhody series, PK-3, continued its exploration of how plasma and dust interact in a gravity-free lab aboard the ISS. Led again by Vladimir Fortov, this phase examined more advanced behaviors and structures of dust-plasma systems.

Building on the PK-1 and PK-2 experiments, PK-3 introduced new diagnostics and methods for examining phase transitions. Researchers observed how energy input changes the organization of dust particles, essentially witnessing transitions from ordered (crystalline) to disordered (fluid) states. The experiment also explored how these systems react to shocks and external stimuli.

The outcomes are vital for understanding natural phenomena like planetary ring formations, comet tails, and even interstellar dust clouds. On the practical side, it aids the development of cleaner plasma processing and material handling technologies.

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.