The story around the first 4n signal

Abstract

The GANIL campaign around the first 4n signal was very peculiar. The beginning and end were both dictated by unexpected events that, unfortunately, do not fit within the streamlined format of standard scientific publications. However, they illustrate many aspects of how basic research should work, or at least does work. Therefore, I take this opportunity to share them with those not involved in the campaign, hoping that they will offer a better perspective of that research in particular and of basic research in general. As a disclaimer, this is only a personal recollection of those events.