Abstract: The present invention refers to an apparatus and a capsule for carrying out processes of directed crystallization, especially in cosmic space conditions. The apparatus comprises a first compartment forming a multizone furnace having an inner surface divided into heating zones for heating up material pieces to be processed, and a second compartment for receiving capsule holders bearing capsules for receiving the material pieces, the first and second compartments being connected with one another through a cooled neck part and determining together a common closed space, the second compartment includes an upper and a lower annular rims prepared with cutouts for capsule holders, the capsule holders and the rims forming together a magazine of capsules, and revolving manipulating means.