Triaxial superdeformation in Lu-163

High-spin states in Lu-163 have been investigated using the Euroball spectr ometer array. The previously known superdeformed band has been extended at low and high energies, and its connection to the normal-deformed states has been established. From its decay the mixing amplitude and interaction stre ngth between superdeformed and normal states are derived. In addition, a ne w band with a similar dynamic moment of inertia has been found. The experim ental results are compared to cranking calculations which suggest that the superdeformed bands in this mass region correspond to shapes with a pronoun ced triaxiality (gamma = +/-20 degrees). (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.