Erice: INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF NUCLEAR PHYSICS, 47th COURSE

Although heavy elements like gold and platinum are known to form through the rapid neutron capture process (r-process), their exact cosmic origins remain uncertain. Neutron star mergers account for some r-process production, but a substantial second component may come from other environments, such as magnetorotational supernovae. I will discuss a few key open questions surrounding the r-process, including the influence of neutrinos, neutron capture physics, and observational prospects with gamma-ray satellites.