Lab-created elements shed light on neutron star explosions.
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have produced a signature nuclear reaction that occurs on the surface of a neutron star gobbling mass from a companion star. The achievement improves understanding of stellar processes generating diverse nuclear isotopes. The team uses a unique gas jet target system, which produces the world's highest-density helium jet for accelerator experiments, to understand nuclear reactions that proceed with the same physics on Earth as in outer space.