Efficient Image Visualization and Analysis with CARTA - Cube Analysis and Rendering Tool for Astronomy

ABSTRACT :
CARTA (Cube Analysis and Rendering Tool for Astronomy) is a state-of-the-art software designed for image visualization and analysis in astronomy, developed by an international collaboration from ASIAA, IDIA, NRAO, and the Dept. of Physics University of Alberta. Key features that make CARTA a powerful tool for astronomical data: i) High performance in visualizing large images – ~1 TB size data cube can be loaded in seconds with ~1 GB of RAM. ii) Client-server architecture – computation and data storage can be handled by a powerful remote server and images are visualized on the client side (e.g., laptop). This allows researchers to deal with huge data produced by modern telescopes. iii) Wide range of efficient tools – annotation, contour, spectral line-related analysis, catalog visualization, etc. This supports studies from an individual source structure to large survey statistical analyses and produces publication-qualified plots. In the latest release, we introduce an advanced feature: interactive PV (Position-Velocity) image preview. This feature empowers researchers to explore their 3D image cubes in real time by adjusting PV cuts. This release also offers other useful features, such as visualization of large catalogs from multi-wavelength observations and an intuitive image-fitting tool. New features, e.g., RGB image blender and Channel-map view, will join CARTA in the upcoming release.