The nuclear shell model predicts that the next doubly magic shell-closure beyond ~(208)Pb is at a proton number Z = 114, 120, or 126 and at a neutron number N = 172 or 184. The outstanding aim of experimental investigations is the exploration of this region of spherical 'Super-Heavy Elements' (SHEs). The measured decay data reveal that for the heaviest elements, the dominant decay mode is a emission, not fission. Decay properties as well as reaction cross-sections are compared with results of theoretical investigations. Finally, plans are presented for the further development of the experimental set-up and the application of new techniques. At a higher sensitivity, the exploration of the region of spherical SHEs now becomes feasible, almost forty years after its prediction.
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