Convert FITS to RAS

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 Sun Raster file extension, also known as RAS, is a bitmap graphics file format developed by Sun Microsystems for use on their SunOS operating system. It supports black-and-white, grayscale, and color images with various pixel depths and includes simple Run-Length Encoding (RLE) compression. The format was widely used in UNIX-based systems and is supported by many imaging applications. The RAS format has largely been superseded by more modern formats but remains relevant for legacy systems and specific use cases.