Towards Uncertainty-Quantified Neutron Capture Cross Sections for Calcium

Neutron capture cross sections on mid-Z elements are important for fundamental and applied nuclear science, including in simulations of nucleosynthesis in extreme astrophysical environments. While data relevant to these processes exist for stable and long-lived species, one is inherently reliant on theory to produce predictions out to the neutron drip line. This reliance on theory is an important source of uncertainty; robust predictions must properly characterize this. In this talk, I will discuss the construction of neutron capture cross sections on calcium isotopes between stability and the neutron drip line, as a representative of a much larger set of elements to be addressed in this project. I will emphasize the uncertainties incurred by the choice of optical model potential, and will present findings on cross section correlations across energies, exit channels and isotopes.