A direct underground measurement of the 17O(p,α)14N reaction cross-section at energies of astrophysical interest

Abstract

The 17O(p,α)14N reaction plays a key role in many stellar sites, including classical novae and massive stars. Our knowledge of these scenarios might be improved by a precise measurement of the reaction’s cross-section at astrophysical energies. A direct attempt is currently underway in the Gran Sasso Laboratory, Italy, using the underground LUNA 400kV accelerator. The background reduction afforded by the underground environment is essential to the success of this challenging measurement. A purpose-built experimental setup has been simulated and commissioned. Preliminary results are presented.