Raw Data

Most CCD cameras used in astronomy record data in FIT (Flexible Image Transport) format. This is the most useful format for analysis, or for finding "what's really there". Typically, however, these files must be processed in order to be displayed, and the processing changes the "raw" data. Sometimes there is no substitute for examining the original data.

The data here have been reduced, aligned, and combined. Although there are many possible workflows that will yield useable data, the typical data reduction is as follows. All original files are recorded as 16 bit integer FIT files using CCDDoft. Multiple dark files of a constant time and temperature are combined into a "Master Dark" file using CCDStack. Flat files are most often taken at dusk (or dawn) with a stretched T-shirt over the front of the telescope. Again, multiple individual flat frames are dark subtracted and combined into a "Master Flat" using CCDStack. Reduced files are aligned in CCDStack, and the aligned files are saved as 32 bit floating point data. Multiple reduced files are combined using Sigma Beta, and saved as 32 bit floating point FIT files. These combined files are what is posted here.

Feel free to download and play with any of the data posted to this site, but please follow these rules:

1. Don't make any money from using these files.
2. Give appropriate credit to the Fort Lewis College Observatory if you publish or post any processed data.
3. Ask before re-posting any of the data found here. (Pointing here from another site is fine, and even encouraged.)

Thanks. Enjoy!

Folder: M1

Folder: M100

Folder: M101

Folder: M86