Searching for Cataclysmic Variable Stars in Unidentified X-Ray Sources

We carry out a photometric search for new cataclysmic variable stars (CVs), with the goal of identification for candidates of AR Scorpii-type binary systems. We select GAIA sources that are likely associated with unidentified X-ray sources, and analyze the light curves taken by the Zwicky Transient Facility, Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, and Lulin One-meter Telescope in Taiwan. We investigate eight sources as candidates for CVs, among which six sources are new identifications. Another two sources have been recognized as CVs in previous studies, but no detailed investigations have been done. We identify two eclipsing systems that are associated with an unidentified XMM-Newton or Swift source, and one promising candidate for polar associated with an unidentified ASKA source. Two polar candidates may locate in the so-called period gap of a CV, and the other six candidates have an orbital period shorter than that of the period gap. Although we do not identify a promising candidate for AR Scorpii-type binary systems, our study suggests that CV systems that have X-ray emission and do not show frequent outbursts may have been missed in previous surveys.

Automated summary

We conducted a photometric search and identified eight potential cataclysmic variable star candidates, including six new identifications, two eclipsing systems associated with unidentified X-ray sources, and one promising candidate for polar association.