Pionic fusion to a halo state, the d(α,6Li∗)π0 reaction studied close to threshold

Abstract The d( α , 6 Li ∗ 3.56 ) π 0 reaction has been studied at E c.m. =1.2 and 1.9 MeV above threshold with an alpha-particle beam incident on a deuterium cluster-jet target in CELSIUS. Complete differential cross sections were measured at both energies, integrated to σ =228±6+70 nb and 141±12+42 nb respectively. Observed large anisotropies are discussed in relation to the cluster structure of the 6 Li ∗ halo.