Verify the predicted close encounter of PSR J1959+2048 with a Gaia DR3 star

Ascertain whether PSR J1959+2048 will undergo a close encounter with Gaia DR3 1823773582122099584 in approximately 420 years by refining distance and proper motion measurements to resolve current uncertainties in the encounter scenario.

Background

The authors extrapolate the proper motion of PSR J1959+2048 and identify a potential close encounter with a Gaia DR3 star in roughly 420 years, aligning with their deceleration and capture predictions.

They explicitly note that the scenario’s validity is uncertain due to distance uncertainties for both the pulsar and the target star, motivating improved astrometry.