Toward Inclusive Astrophotography: Exploration of Color-Adjusted RGB Composite Images for Dichromat Vision Using Siril
Achmad Zainur Rozzykin (a*,b,c), Aditya Abdilah Yusuf (a)

(a) Itera Astronomical Observatory, Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Lampung, Indonesia
*achmad.rozzykin[at]sap.itera.ac.id
(b) Department of Atmospheric and Planetary Science, Faculty of Science, Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Lampung, Indonesia
(c) Space and Planetary Science Research Group, Faculty of Science, Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Lampung, Indonesia

Abstract

Astrophotography often emphasizes aesthetic and scientific value through the use of RGB filters, but the resulting images may not be equally perceivable by individuals with color vision deficiencies. In this preliminary study, we explore a method to process RGB astrophotographic images taken in Itera Astronomical Observatory into a composite that better approximates how dichromats perceive color. Using Siril, we adjusted the central wavelengths and relative intensity of each RGB channel to simulate the visual spectrum accessible to individuals with protanopia, deuteranopia, and tritanopia. The goal is to produce a composite image where contrast and structure remain discernible under dichromatic perception. This experiment is still in the early stages and has not yet undergone quantitative validation. However, initial visual assessments suggest the potential to enhance astrophotographic accessibility for individuals with color vision deficiencies. Future work will include perceptual testing and algorithmic optimization to refine this approach and explore its applications in inclusive astronomy communication.

Keywords: Astrophotography- Color Vision Deficiency- Inclusive astronomy

Topic: Public Outreach, Education, and Popularization of Astronomy