PK-4:: Complex plasmas in space -: The next generation

PK-4 is an experiment designed to investigate complex plasmas in a combined dc/RF discharge under microgravity conditions on board of the International Space Station. The dc,discharge is produced in a glass tube with a length of 35 cm and, a diameter of 3 cm. In addition, an RF discharge can be applied by external RF coils. The setup is especially suited for studying the liquid phase of the complex plasmas, e.g., flow phenomena such as turbulence or nozzles, and forces acting on the microparticles. Experiments in the laboratory and in parabolic flights have been used to determine the charge of the microparticles as well as the ion drag force acting on them.