Study of reaction cross-sections of astrophysical interest (N02)

• Subject Area: Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Relativity, Fields
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 514321794

We aim to infer radiative-capture cross sections at low energy employing an indirect technique by using MESA’s high-intensity electron beam to induce photo-dissociation reactions of astrophysical interest, such as (γ, α) and (γ, n). Since photo-dissociation and radiative capture are time-reversed processes, their cross sections are directly related. By measuring the electron with the high-resolution MAGIX spectrometers in coincidence with the recoil particles, the background contributions can be significantly reduced. These new measurements will challenge nuclear theory calculations. For this purpose, dedicated theoretical efforts will aim at modelling these reactions.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1660: Hadrons and Nuclei as Discovery Tools
• Applicant Institution: Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Pierre Capel; Dr. Tanja Heftrich; Professorin Dr. Concettina Sfienti