Analysis of Results from the Complex (Dusty) Plasma Experiment on board the International Space Station

The Plasma Crystal Experiment PKE-Nefedov is installed on the International Space Station (ISS) and is aimed at investigating complex (dusty) plasmas under microgravity conditions. Complex plasmas consist of ions, electrons and small solid particles (dust grains) that are charged by their interaction with the electrons and ions. They are of especial interest, since they can form liquid and crystalline states, plasma crystals, and the dynamics of the charged dust grains are directly observable. In Earth based experiments gravity plays a dominating role and the grains usually collect in restricted regions.  Under microgravity, in the orbiting space station, the grains move freely in the bulk of the plasma and a wealth of new phenomena has been observed. Through a collaboration with the Complex Plasmas Group at the Max Planck Institute, Garching, we will have access to the extensive data base of experimental results from the Plasma Crystal Experiment. Several projects will be available later this year (from September/October) using software for image processing (IDL) and evaluating plasma models of the experimental results.

During the course of the project a visit to our collaborators at the Max Planck Institute in Garching will be needed.

Suitable background includes basic knowledge of plasma physics. Some programming skills and the ability to master the use of new software is desirable.