Alpha Anisotropy Studies of Near-Spherical and Deformed Nuclei

% IS329 \\ \\ Although it was the first decay mode to be discovered, the process of $\alpha$-particle emission is still poorly understood. A few years ago the first systematic study of anisotropic $\alpha$-decay triggered renewed theoretical interest. Nevertheless, today the theories are still not adequate enough and more experimental data are urgently needed. We therefore measure the $\alpha$-anisotropies of the favoured transitions of a number of near-spherical Rn and At isotopes, and of deformed nuclei near A=220. As the different models yield contradictory predictions for the transitions that are investigated, the measurements will allow to discern on their validity. They will at the same time provide the necessary basis for further theoretical developments.