Bug Found in Gaia query_object Functions of Astroquery’s Python Package

Abstract

Abstract This research note addresses a bug in the Gaia functionality of the astroquery Python package. The bug, which results in sources in the Gaia catalog not being returned, affects the Gaia.query_object() and Gaia.query_object_async() functions. These rely on the deprecated ADQL BOX function if width or height are specified. These functions are used in published research and as such the bug could affect peer-reviewed results. We advise any researchers using these functions to instead use the Gaia.cone_search() counterparts to these functions or the Gaia.launch_job() functions. The Gaia helpdesk have been contacted and have confirmed the behavior and may update the astroquery documentation in the coming months.