A systematic search for redback and black widow candidates based on the 4FGL-DR3 unassociated sources and the Zwicky Transient Facility data

TL;DR

This study systematically searches for redback and black widow pulsar candidates by analyzing gamma-ray sources and optical variability data, resulting in the identification of nine promising candidates for further multi-wavelength observations.

Contribution

It introduces a novel data processing pipeline combining gamma-ray and optical variability data to identify new spider pulsar candidates, advancing the methods for pulsar discovery.

Findings

Identified 9 high-confidence spider pulsar candidates

Developed a pipeline integrating Fermi gamma-ray and Zwicky Transient Facility data

Refined candidate selection using Gaia data and proper motion analysis

Abstract

Spider pulsars constitute a distinct subset within the domain of radio millisecond pulsars, divided further into the categories of black widows and redbacks. Evident across multiple wavelengths, these pulsars manifest periodic variations and reside within binary systems. Investigating and discovering additional spider-type pulsars carries significant implications for comprehending the evolution of high-mass stars. Particularly crucial is the validation of the "Recycling" theory of millisecond pulsar genesis. In this investigation, we systematically explore spider pulsar binary systems utilizing time-domain variability data from the Zwicky Transient Facility, in conjunction with Fermi unassociated gamma-ray sources sourced from the 4FGL-DR3 catalog. We have implemented a time-domain data processing pipeline utilizing the Lomb-Scargle Periodogram algorithm, integrated with the wget data crawling technology. This approach has led to the identification of 194 ellipsoidal variables and irradiation-type binary stars. Subsequent refinement through the Gaia Hertzsprung-Russell diagram has culled a selection of 24 spider pulsar gold sample candidates. By incorporating the 4FGL 95\% confidence error ellipse, the pool was narrowed down to 19 gold sample candidates. Utilizing the Gaia color-reduced proper motion diagram further refined the selection to 9 gold sample candidates. These newly identified spider pulsar candidates will inform subsequent observational campaigns across radio, X-ray, and optical spectroscopy, thereby facilitating a deeper validation of their physical characteristics.