Identifying compact symmetric objects with high-precision VLBI and Gaia astrometry

Abstract: Compact symmetric objects (CSOs) represent a key early stage in radio galaxy evolution, but their reliable identification remains challenging. We develop a method to identify CSOs by combining Gaia optical astrometry with VLBI radio imaging. We analyze 40 CSO candidates by overlaying Gaia DR3 positions on VLBI maps to locate their central engines. CSOs are confirmed when Gaia positions lie between symmetric radio lobes, while core-jet sources show optical positions coinciding with one end of the radio structure. We verify classifications using spectral indices, variability, and jet kinematics from multi-epoch VLBI observations. Our method identified 22 genuine CSOs and 10 core-jet sources, with 8 objects remaining ambiguous. Confirmed CSOs show kinematic ages from 20 to over 1000 years and hotspot speeds typically below 0.5c. Five nearby CSOs show optical-radio offsets despite strong CSO morphology, indicating host galaxy influence. The Gaia-VLBI method provides a reliable CSO identification tool. Our sample reveals diverse radio powers, suggesting multiple evolutionary paths. CSO evolution appears influenced by both intrinsic jet power and environmental factors, with high-power CSOs potentially evolving into large-scale radio galaxies while low-power CSOs often show confinement by their host environments.