Astrometry.net

Overview:

Astrometry.net is an automated service that offers the recognition of astronomical images and provides standards-compliant astrometric metadata from the data. This service is designed for those who have astronomical images of the sky with celestial coordinates they are unsure of or do not trust. By inputting an image, users can receive back astrometric calibration metadata along with lists of known objects within the field of view.

Features:

• Automatic Recognition: Astrometry.net automatically recognizes astronomical images.
• Astrometric Calibration: Provides standards-compliant astrometric metadata.
• Object Identification: Generates lists of known objects within the image's field of view.
• Comprehensive Calibration Service: Aims to create accurate astrometric metadata for all astronomical images ever taken, past and future.
• Open Source Development: Code development is available on GitHub under a BSD-style license.
• Academic Reference: Users are encouraged to cite the paper for academic use.

Summary:

Astrometry.net is a valuable tool for anyone dealing with astronomical images, providing automated recognition and calibration services. With its open-source development model and commitment to creating accurate astrometric metadata, it aims to organize and annotate astronomical information effectively. Users are encouraged to cite the associated academic paper for their scholarly use.