Varieties of FITS Files

Leading FITS Type

.FITS

File Name:	.fits
Category:	Flexible Image Transport System File

Raster image file saved in FITS (flexible Image Transport System) format which is used by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) to store astronomical data.

Developer:	Open Source
Kind:	Raster Image Files
Folder:	HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.fits

Software Programs That Open The Flexible Image Transport System File:

GIMP by The GIMP Development Team

Windows

Mac

Linux

Wolfram Research Mathematica by Wolfram Research

Windows

Mac

Linux

NASA fv FITS Viewer by NASA

Windows

Mac

Linux

MSB AVIS by Open Source

Windows

MicroObservatory Image by Open Source

Windows

Mac

Linux

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FITS File Complications

Troubles Opening FITS Files

GIMP is Not Installed

You attempt to load your FITS file and get an error such as "%%os%% Can't Open The FITS File Extension". When this happens, it is commonly due to GIMP missing in %%os%%. The typical path of opening your FITS with a double-click won't work because %%os%% cannot make the program connection.

Tip: If you know of another program that can open your FITS file, you can try opening it by selecting the application from the programs listed.

GIMP Requires Update

Sometimes your installed version of GIMP won't support your Flexible Image Transport System File file. If you've got the wrong version of GIMP installed, you'll need to install the correct version. This problem is most common when you have an older version of the software application, and your file was created by a newer version that it cannot recognize.

Tip: Investigate your FITS file by right-clicking and selecting "Properties" to find clues on what version you need.

Summary: In either case, the majority of problems opening FITS files are related to not having the correct software application installed on your computer.

More Causes of Problems Opening FITSs

In the majority of cases, installing the right version of GIMP will resolve your issue. There can be external issues inside of %%os%% that are causing these errors when opening FITSs. Problems unrelated to software:

• File references in the Windows Registry for FITS are wrong
• Unintentional removal of the description of the FITS file inside the Windows Registry
• Corrupt install of GIMP or other FITS-related program
• The FITS itself is corrupted
• Past or present virus infection has affected your FITS
• Hardware associated with FITS has outdated drivers
• Too many applications are open on your PC to load your Flexible Image Transport System File file successfully