What ZTF Saw Where Rubin Looked: Anomaly Hunting in DR23

TL;DR

This paper reports on the first systematic anomaly search in ZTF fields observed by LSSTComCam, using the PineForest algorithm, leading to new variable star discoveries and refined classifications, showcasing the potential for LSST data analysis.

Contribution

It introduces a systematic anomaly detection approach applied to ZTF data, demonstrating its effectiveness and providing insights for future LSST data analysis.

Findings

Discovered six new variable stars of various types.

Refined classifications and periods for six known objects.

Validated the effectiveness of the SNAD anomaly detection pipeline.

Abstract

We present results from the SNAD VIII Workshop, during which we conducted the first systematic anomaly search in the ZTF fields also observed by LSSTComCam during Rubin Scientific Pipeline commissioning. Using the PineForest active anomaly detection algorithm, we analysed four selected fields (two galactic and two extragalactic) and visually inspected 400 candidates. As a result, we discovered six previously uncatalogued variable stars, including RS~CVn, BY Draconis, ellipsoidal, and solar-type variables, and refined classifications and periods for six known objects. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the SNAD anomaly detection pipeline and provide a preview of the discovery potential in the upcoming LSST data.