Developing the (d,p$\gamma )$ reaction as a surrogate for (n,$\gamma )$ in inverse kinematics

The r-process that proceeds via (n,$\gamma )$ reactions on neutron-rich nuclei is responsible for the synthesis of about half of the elements heavier than iron. Because (n,$\gamma )$ measurements on short-lived isotopes are not possible, the (d,p$\gamma )$ reaction is being investigated as a surrogate for (n,$\gamma )$. The experimental setup GODDESS (Gammasphere ORRUBA: Dual Detectors for Experimental Structure Studies) has been developed especially for this purpose. The Oak Ridge Rutgers University Barrel Array (ORRUBA) of position-sensitive silicon strip detectors was augmented with annular arrays of segmented strip detectors at backward and forward angles, resulting in a high-angular coverage for light ejectiles (20 to 160 degrees in the laboratory frame). The $^{\mathrm{134}}$Xe(d,p$\gamma )$ reaction, used to commission the setup, was measured in inverse kinematics with stable beams from ATLAS impinged on C$_{\mathrm{2}}$D$_{\mathrm{4}}$ targets. Reaction protons were measured (ORRUBA) in coincidence with gamma rays (Gammasphere). An overview of GODDESS and preliminary results from the $^{\mathrm{134}}$Xe(d,p$\gamma )$ study will be presented.