Convert PFM to FITS

The Portable Floatmap (PFM) file format, also known as Portable FloatMap, is an image file format designed to store High Dynamic Range (HDR) images using floating-point values. Developed in the spirit of the Portable Pixmap format, PFM files contain image data with resolutions and byte order specified in the header. This format is particularly useful for applications requiring precise image data, such as computer graphics and image processing. PFM has been widely adopted in the IT industry for its ability to handle a wide range of pixel values beyond the standard 0-255 range, making it ideal for HDR imaging and other advanced visualizations.

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.