Convert FITS to MONO

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.

The MONO file extension stands for "Monochrome Bitmap" and is used for storing raw bi-level bitmap images, which are essentially black-and-white images without any color or grayscale. This format is primarily utilized in applications requiring simple, high-contrast images, such as fax transmissions and certain types of document scanning. The MONO format, characterized by its least-significant-byte first order, has been supported by various image processing tools. Its history traces back to early bitmap graphics needs, emphasizing simplicity and efficiency in image storage and processing.