WRAP: A Tool for Efficient Cross-Identification of Proper Motion Objects Spanning Multiple Surveys

TL;DR

WRAP is a tool that improves the cross-identification of high proper motion objects across multiple surveys by integrating catalog data with images for real-time visual confirmation, aiding in the study of faint, moving sources.

Contribution

It introduces WRAP, a novel tool that enhances cross-matching accuracy for high proper motion objects by combining catalog data with images, developed within a citizen science framework.

Findings

Enables correct cross-identification of high proper motion objects.

Provides real-time visual confirmation of cross-matches.

Supports characterization of faint, high motion sources.

Abstract

We introduce the Wide-field Retrieval of Astrodata Program (WRAP), a tool created to aid astronomers in gathering photometric and astrometric data for point sources that may confuse simple cross-matching algorithms because of their faintness or motion. WRAP allows astronomers to correctly cross-identify objects with proper motion across multiple surveys by wedding the catalog data with its underlying images, thus providing visual confirmation of cross-associations in real time. Developed within the Backyard Worlds: Planet 9 citizen science project, WRAP aims to aid in the characterization of faint, high motion sources by this collaboration (and others).