Convert PHM to FITS

The PHM file extension stands for Portable Float-map Image (16-bit half), a format used for storing High Dynamic Range (HDR) images with 16-bit half-precision floating-point values. This format is particularly useful in applications requiring precise color representation and extensive dynamic range, such as computer graphics, image processing, and scientific visualization. Originating from the Portable FloatMap (PFM) format, PHM was developed to provide a more efficient storage solution by utilizing half-precision floats, thereby reducing file size while maintaining significant detail and accuracy.

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.