Convert PIX to FITS

The PIX file extension stands for Alias/Wavefront Run-Length Encoding (RLE) Image Format. Developed by Alias Systems Corporation (later acquired by Autodesk), it was designed for storing bitmap images in PowerAnimator and Alias 3D software. This format was instrumental in creating high-resolution 3D models and animations for movies and video games in the 1990s. The RLE compression minimized file size without compromising image quality, optimizing performance for graphics-heavy tasks. Although its usage has declined in favor of more versatile formats, PIX played a significant role in the evolution of computer graphics technology.

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.