Theoretical models in nuclear astrophysics

We review different models used in nuclear astrophysics. Definitions of the relevant cross sections and reaction rates are presented. In particular the role of the R-matrix theory and of microscopic cluster models is emphasized. We discuss three applications: R-matrix fits of the12C(α,γ)16O E2 S factor, microscopic cluster calculations of the7Be(p,γ)8B reactions, and recent results o,2H(d,γ)4He,2H(d, p)3H and2H(d,n)3He obtained with realistic nucleon-nucleon interactions. These d + d cross sections show evidence for an important role of the tensor force in A = 4 systems.SCOPUS: cp.p