Type I X-ray bursts are the most frequently observed explosive stellar events in our Galaxy, and a huge amount of observational data has been collected in the last decade. It offers a unique opportunity to study properties of a neutron star, as well as probing the underlying nuclear physics processes during the thermonuclear explosion on the surface of the neutron star. In most cases, the rapid proton-capture process quickly creates heavier elements through fast proton captures and subsequent beta-decays. Interestingly, the observed luminosity curve is mainly shaped by only a few identified nuclear reactions, which impose unique characteristics on the spectrum. In this talk, I will discuss recent experimental activity to constrain important reaction rates and highlight some open questions.

Argonne Physics Division Seminar Schedule