Dedicated to Professor Heilbronner on the occasion of his 60th birthdayFor the analysis and optimization of numerous gas phase reactions in flow-systems, photoelectron spectroscopy has proven most valuable. This real-time measuring probe allows one to determine-with millimol quantities and within a few hours-the temperatures for different decomposition channels. Simultaneously, main products are characterized and, if need be, their yield can be improved. By careful performance of the experiment, short-lived and/or reactive molecules such as P2, thioformaldehyde or silabenzene can be detected. PEspectroscopic gas analysis is of particular advantage in the search for heterogeneous catalysts; they can be tested within a day using gas mixtures of varying composition over the temperature range from 300 K to 1300 K. In addition, PE-spectrometers are well-suited for on-line connection to computers; portable instruments for laboratory use are under development."Besser ist's doch wie gar nichts"