Results and further experiments using Spacelab holography.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Crystallography
• Space Science

Background:

• Spacelab 3 facilitated the first extensive in-space application of holography.
• Previous studies lacked detailed in-situ observation of crystal growth under microgravity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply holographic technology for observing crystal growth in space.
• To investigate the solution growth of triglycine sulfate crystals under microgravity.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a holographic unit aboard Spacelab 3 for in-situ data acquisition.
• Recorded high-quality holograms of triglycine sulfate crystal growth.

Main Results:

• Excellent quality holograms were obtained, revealing key growth dynamics.
• Suppression of convection and formation of a symmetric concentration depletion zone were observed.
• Crystal growth was determined to be controlled by diffusion across the depletion region.

Conclusions:

• Holography is a viable technique for in-space crystal growth studies.
• Microgravity significantly influences crystal growth by suppressing convection and enabling diffusion-controlled transport.
• The successful holographic unit will be re-flown, offering new research opportunities.