The story around the first 4n signal

TL;DR

This paper recounts the unique and unexpected events during the GANIL campaign focused on the first 4n signal, highlighting the nature of basic research through personal experiences.

Contribution

It provides a personal narrative illustrating the unpredictable and exploratory aspects of basic scientific research, especially in nuclear physics.

Findings

Unanticipated events influenced the research process.

The campaign demonstrated the non-linear nature of basic research.

Personal insights into scientific discovery and research dynamics.

Abstract

The GANIL campaign around the first 4n signal was very peculiar. The beginning and end were both dictated by unexpected events that, unfortunately, do not fit within the streamlined format of standard scientific publications. However, they illustrate many aspects of how basic research should work, or at least does work. Therefore, I take this opportunity to share them with those not involved in the campaign, hoping that they will offer a better perspective of that research in particular and of basic research in general. As a disclaimer, this is only a personal recollection of those events.