What it does
StarTools is an astrophotography processing application whose documented workflow tracks signal and noise during image edits.
StarTools tracks signal and noise during astronomical-image processing. Use masks for selected pixels, AutoDev or FilmDev for stretching, and Bin to trade resolution against noise; colour, crop and gradient-removal modules address separate editing decisions. Tracking data can occupy many gigabytes on local storage. The publisher distinguishes stable 1.8 from the 1.9 beta and warns that beta documentation may be incomplete. The free trial has no time limit but cannot save work. An individual purchased licence does not expire, includes updates released within two years, and does not require an internet connection.
Strengths
- Dedicated astrophotography workflow
- Feature documentation and tutorials
Best for
- Developing an astronomical image after capture
Sources
- StarTools - Advanced Image Processing Software for Astrophotography (Oct 26, 2026)
- StarTools release branches and tracking storage (Oct 26, 2026)
- StarTools trial saving and license scope (Oct 26, 2026)
- StarTools module features and documentation (Oct 26, 2026)