The nuclear shell model predicts that the next doubly magic shell‐closure beyond208Pb 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 &agr; 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. © 2004 American Institute of Physics