Search for superdeformed shapes inGd144

Two-dimensional γ-γ transition energy correlation measurements were made in ${}_{}{}^{144}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Gd}$ using Compton-suppressed Ge detectors in the spin spectrometer. A ridge-valley structure was observed and shown to originate from discrete, fast transitions. The deduced moment of inertia is less than that of the superdeformed collective bands that have been predicted by Strutinsky cranking calculations.