FITS Preview is a streamlined viewer specifically designed for images in the FITS format (Flexible Image Transport System). This format was introduced by NASA and the High Energy Astrophysics Science Archive Research Center (HEASARC) to facilitate the robust transmission and manipulation of astronomical data.
Unlike comprehensive FITS editors, FITS Preview stands out for its speed and user-friendliness. The application is tailored for users who need quick, efficient access to view their astronomical images without the overhead of complex editing features.
The viewer's ease of use is highlighted by its straightforward functionality: a double-click on any FITS file across various directories prompts FITS Preview to open it instantly. The application automatically adjusts the image to fit the viewing window and optimizes brightness, while also allowing for adjustments in image orientation as needed.
Additional features of FITS Preview include the ability to view the file header and the image histogram, which are essential for analyzing the data contained within the images. Users can also view raw images in color by selecting the correct Bayer matrix offset, thus enhancing the visual data interpretation.
FITS Preview is based on the CFITSIO library, supporting both standard monochrome and color FITS image formats. This compatibility ensures that FITS Preview can be used seamlessly within various astronomical data analysis workflows, providing a reliable and efficient tool for image viewing and preliminary data assessment.
In addition to FITS format it supports also XISF (introduced by PixInsight, 8 and 16 bit-depth only) and INDIGO Raw (introduced by INDIGO Initiative).
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Can't view FITS from the Finder
Mr. Penguinlicious
You have to open the FITS file in the app to view it. It has sliders to adjust the histogram, you can zoom in/out, etc. But if you are looking for a way to quickly view FITS images in the Finder just by hitting the spacebar, then look elsewhere (e.g., QuickFITS).
Fast and makes Astrophotorgraphy sorting easier
Grimstod
It now allows you to zoom in quite far. 400% and I can now see indavidual pixels. Makes sorting and viewwing images out of my ZWO much faster. All the data that it gives you in the info pain is also especially helpful. I really love having the ability to change bayer patterns too.I just am adding this. So the info section gives you the location that the mount was in. This is really helpful becuase you can then return to a custum composition on another night to capture more data. Very helpfull. The developer is also very responsive through email and suport.
Views FITS files, nothing more.
spratdog
It does in fact display my FITS images. It does not zoom past 100% to see individual pixels clearly. It does have black & white point sliders, small sliders, with no histogram for reference or numeric values. It does not have any value pickers or magnifying glass allowing me to get the original value from any particular pixel.
Last update breaks other programs.
kd5dmg
In this last update they added a UTI for .fits files that caused other programs that use fits files to stop working. You do not own the .fits file extension. NASA does. you should not have broken other apps with your update
Developer Response
Fixed, UTI changed to gov.nasa.gsfc.fits.
- Application icon fixed
Version 5.31
The developer, CloudMakers, s. r. o., indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .
Data Not Collected
The developer does not collect any data from this app.
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