Convert XPM to FITS

The XPM (X PixMap) file extension is a format used for storing pixmap images, primarily in the X Window System for Unix-based systems. Developed in the late 1980s, it allows for the storage of images in plain text, making it human-readable and editable. XPM files are mainly utilized for defining icons and graphical elements in software applications. They support transparency and can be easily integrated into programming languages such as C, enhancing the customization and visual appeal of user interfaces. The format's simplicity and flexibility have cemented its role in software development and graphical design.

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.