Redback/Black Widow Systems as progenitors of the highest neutron star masses and low-mass Black Holes

TL;DR

This paper proposes that 'spider' binary systems are likely progenitors of the most massive neutron stars and low-mass black holes, based on their evolutionary characteristics and observed mass data.

Contribution

It introduces the idea that spider systems naturally evolve into high-mass neutron stars or low-mass black holes, highlighting their significance in compact object formation.

Findings

Spider systems are likely progenitors of high-mass neutron stars.

They may also lead to the formation of low-mass black holes.

Evolutionary features support their role in compact object progenitors.

Abstract

We suggest in this note that "spider" systems are the naturally expected progenitors of the highest neutron star masses, and possibly low-mass black holes, based on their long-term evolutionary features and actual mass measurements.