Measuring the Size of Things in the Universe: Hbt Interferometry and Heavy Ion Physics

CRIS (Catania Relativistic Ion Studies) is a recently established series of topical conferences held every two years in the Catania area, in Italy. The aim of these conferences is to discuss specific hot topics in heavy ion physics.

The second CRIS Conference was devoted to the interferometric techniques for measuring the size of nuclear sources as well as astrophysical objects. The thrust of its program was somewhat cross-disciplinary. A historical review of early astronomical measurements, and some current applications in astrophysics were included, although the bulk of the program was concerned with the use of HBT in inferring nuclear source sizes and lifetimes.