Algorithmic Pulsar Timing

Abstract Pulsar timing is a process of iteratively fitting pulse arrival times to constrain the spindown, astrometric, and possibly binary parameters pulsar, by enforcing integer numbers pulsar rotations between times. Phase connection unambiguously determining those rotation while solution. currently requires manual step-by-step phase performed individuals. In an effort quantify streamline this process, we created Algorithmic Timer (APT), algorithm that can accurately connect time isolate pulsars. Using statistical F-test knowledge parameter uncertainties covariances, decides what new data include in fit, when add additional parameters, which model attempt subsequent iterations. these tools, phase-connect previously required substantial effort. We tested on 100 simulated systems, with 99% success rate. APT combines tests techniques logical decision-making very similar one used astronomers for decades, some computational brute force, automate often tricky isolated connection, setting foundation automated systems.