Ekoplasma - Experiments with Grid Electrodes in Microgravity

First results of complex plasma experiments in microgravity with grid electrodes in the Ekoplasma facility are presented. These electrodes separate the region of plasma production from the working volume where the microparticles are injected. Grid electrodes allow a control of plasma parameters, and provide a nearly force-free environment for the microparticles. The experiments show that the grid electrode method can be applied to complex plasmas and that this technology yields a promising new experimental method for future research topics.