Convert RLE to FITS

The RLE (Run-Length Encoded) file extension, associated with the Utah Raster Toolkit, is a lossless image compression format used primarily for 4 or 8-bit bitmap images. Developed at the University of Utah, it employs run-length encoding to compress data by reducing consecutive repeated values, making it efficient for simple graphics like icons and line drawings. Historically, it was widely used in early versions of Windows and CompuServe software.

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.