High Energy Approaches To Low Energy Phenomena In Astrophysics

Abstract

Studies in nuclear astrophysics have long been associated with long runs at small accelerators, measuring ever-decreasing cross sections as one approached (but rarely reached) the energy of reactions in stars. But in recent years pioneering studies have shown that studies at high-energy accelerators can often yield the same information, and in some important cases, provide information not otherwise available. This is particularly so for studies of the properties and reactions of the short-lived radioactive nuclei that play a crucial role in explosive phenomena such as novae, supernovae, and neutron stars. I'll give an overview of some of the possibilities, and then concentrate on two extended examples: measurements of the rates of radioactive capture reactions using Coulomb breakup reactions, and the relationship of charge exchange cross sections and beta-decay strength for L = 1 transitions.