Colloquium - From Stars to the Laboratory: Exploring the r-Process with Nuclear Reactions with Fernando Montes

Speaker

Dr. Fernando Montes, Facility for Rare Isotope Beams at Michigan State University

Abstract

Stellar explosions and colliding neutron stars are significant sources of the chemical elements found in nature. While some astrophysical processes responsible for element creation are well-understood, others, like the rapid neutron capture process (r-process), remain challenging to study. These nucleosynthetic processes often involve reactions on short-lived radioactive isotopes, which can now be produced and studied at advanced accelerator facilities. By measuring charged-particle reactions relevant to the r-process, we can better constrain nuclear reaction rates and properties, allowing laboratory insights into how elements are forged in the cosmos. Breakthroughs in astronomical observations, such as confirming neutron star mergers as sites of heavy element production, highlight the need for complementary advancements in nuclear experiments on rare isotopes. I will discuss the essential role that charged-particle reactions play in understanding stellar explosions, showcase recent experimental achievements, and offer an outlook on future nuclear astrophysics research, particularly as it relates to the r-process.