Convert FITS to J2K

The FITS (Flexible Image Transport System) file extension is widely utilized in the field of astronomy for storing, transmitting, and manipulating scientific data and images. Originating in the late 1970s, FITS was developed by NASA and the International Astronomical Union (IAU) to standardize the format for astronomical data. Its primary use is to archive astronomical images, spectral data, and other multidimensional data arrays, enabling efficient data interchange among scientists and astronomers. FITS files are known for their ability to store metadata and large datasets, making them essential for detailed scientific analysis and long-term preservation in research environments.

The J2K file extension stands for JPEG 2000 Code Stream Syntax, a part of the JPEG 2000 standard developed by the Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG). Introduced in 2000, JPEG 2000 offers superior image compression and quality compared to the original JPEG format. The J2K codestream is highly flexible, supporting both lossy and lossless compression, and allows for scalable decoding, which means images can be efficiently accessed at various resolutions and quality levels. This makes J2K ideal for applications requiring high-quality image storage and transmission, such as medical imaging, digital cinema, and satellite imagery.