Basic information about FITS file

When there is a problem with opening files with the file extension FITS（*.FITS or *.fits）, you do not need a computer expert. In most cases, using the helpful suggestions of experts contained in our website as well as appropriate programs, you can solve the problem with the FITS file yourself.

There are 1 file types using the FITS file extension in our database. In the further part of this page, you will find detail information about all the FITS file with their brief description and a list of programs that support FITS file sorted by operating systems. The table below provides useful information about the FITS file extension. It answers questions such as:
  • What is the FITS file?
  • How to open a FITS file?
  • What programs do I need to open a FITS file?
  • What programs help to create and edit a FITS file?
  • How to convert FITS files to another file format?
  • How to convert another files to FITS file format?


1.Detail information about FITS file extension: Flexible Image Transport System File

File type Flexible Image Transport System File Category Raster Image Files
Developer N/A File format Binary
Description FITS file is a Flexible Image Transport System File. Bitmap graphic created in the FITS (Flexible Image Transport System) format, which was originally specified by the International Astronomical Union (IAU); may contain both binary data and ASCII text; used as a standard format for storing astronomical data.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert FITS files

Windows		 NASA fv FITS Viewer
MSB AVIS
MicroObservatory Image
Wolfram Research Mathematica
GIMP
XnViewMP
AVIS - FITS Viewer

macOS		 NASA fv FITS Viewer
MicroObservatory Image
GIMP
XnViewMP

Linux		 NASA fv FITS Viewer
MicroObservatory Image
GIMP
XnViewMP



How to convert FITS files to another file format?

There are 1 records in our database eligible for FITS files to another file format conversion. If you want to achieve FITS to another files conversion, you may use the option.

FITS to FTS


Can't open a FITS file?

When you click a file to open it, operating system examines the filename extension. If operating system recognizes the filename extension, it opens the file in the program that is associated with that filename extension. When operating system does not recognize a filename extension, you receive the following message:

”Can't open this file: example.FITS”。

To open this file, you install one of the applications from the list of software programs that you found here, you should be able to open, edit or convert the file with the FITS extension without any issue.


Where I can download the application that support FITS file?

If you do not know where you can download the application from our list, click on the link (which is the name of the program), you will find more information there on the location where to download the required application. Most often they are the websites of software manufacturers.


How to change file associations?

  • Right-click a file with the extension whose association you want to change, and then click "Open With".
  • In the "Open With" dialog box, click the program whith which you want the file to open, or click "Browse" to locate the program that you want.
  • Select the ”Always use the selected program to open this kind of file” check box.


Can I change the extension of FITS files?

Changing the filename extension of a file is not a good idea. When you change a file's extension, you change the way programs on your computer read/open the file. The problem is, changing the file extension does not change the file format. Select a software program from our list and install it on your computer. If the file has not opened correctly, you have to look for a different software program from our list. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.


What else may cause problems width open a FITS file?

The reasons for the lack of the ability to open a FITS file on your computer may be at least several. The easiest thing is to find a suitable application installed on your computer, which will open a FITS file. If there is still something wrong, you might want to check:

  • Whether the FITS file is damaged.
  • Whether the FITS file is incorrectly linked in the registry entries.
  • Whether the FITS file extension has been accidentally removed from the Windows registry.
  • Whether the installation of an application that supports the FITS file format is incompletely.
  • Whether the FITS file is infected.
  • Whether the drivers of the equipment used for opening a FITS file are up to date.
  • Whether your computer has enough hardware resources to open a FITS file.

If the FITS file still not working with your software after eliminating the above shortcomings? That means that the problem is more complex and requires the help of a specialist.