Predictions of the generalized Glauber model for the coherent ρ production at relativistic and ultrarelativistic energies -: art. no. 034901

We calculate the rapidity distribution and the total cross section of coherent and incoherent rho production in heavy ion ultraperipheral collisions at roots(NN)=130 GeV using the generalized vector dominance model and the Gribov-Glauber approach. We find the coherent cross section of rho-production sigma(coh)=490 mb compared to sigma(coh)=370+/-170+/-80 mb recently reported by the STAR collaboration at RHIC. The predicted cross section inside the acceptance of the experiment, \y\less than or equal to1, agrees with the data within half a standard deviation. It is emphasized that measurements of the rapidity distribution will provide a much more stringent test of the used approach.