Identifying Quasar Candidates Behind the Galactic Plane Using Chandra and Machine Learning

This paper addresses the challenge of finding quasars obscured by the Galactic plane, a region where observations are difficult due to dust and source confusion. The authors leverage the Chandra X-ray data, combined with optical and infrared data, and employ a Random Forest classifier to identify quasar candidates. The use of machine learning and multi-wavelength data is a key strength, allowing for the identification of fainter quasars and improving the census of these objects. The paper's significance lies in its contribution to a more complete quasar sample, which is crucial for various astronomical studies, including refining astrometric reference frames and probing the Milky Way's interstellar medium.