How to open file with .FITS extension?

File extension .FITS

.FITSThe file extension is usually three or more characters appearing in the file name after the dot. The extension informs us about the type of the file content, and the operating system about the software which should be used to open it. To open files with the FITS extension you can use the whole range of available software. The list of the most important programs to open files with the FITS extension is shown below.

After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .FITS) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .FITS extension.

When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.

Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .FITS file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .FITS extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .FITS extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .FITS file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.

Other instructions

If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .FITS file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.

In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .FITS file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .FITS file) will be extended to the maximum.

It is also good to check

• if the .FITS file has no errors
• or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly

In such a case it is best to try to download the .FITS file again from the same source on the Internet (or look for another source). If you received the file from another person, ask this person to re-send it. However, if the file was copied from some media, repeat the copying operation.

Author’s guidelines