Study of alpha-induced reactions for Nuclear Astrophysics

Several α-induced reactions on both stable and radioactive isotopes play a crucial role in nuclear astrophysics. Notably, certain α-induced reactions contribute significantly to the nucleosynthesis of the lightest elements in the rapid neutron-capture process (r-process) within neutrino-driven winds post a core collapse supernova. Additionally, some α-induced reactions are known to play a crucial role in X-ray bursts nucleosynthesis. Direct measurements of these reactions at relevant astrophysical energies pose significant experimental challenges. This is mainly due to the inherently small cross sections and the complexities associated with handling low-intensity radioactive beams essential for their study. Consequently, many of these reaction rates remains unknown. Nevertheless, recent advancements in the capabilities of radioactive ion beam facilities and experimental techniques have created new opportunities for exploring these astrophysically important reactions. In this presentation I will review recent experimental efforts and discuss the promising future possibilities for measuring these reactions.