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Firefly

Author Avatar Theme by Caltech ipac
Updated: 14 Jan 2026
49 Stars

Web-based UI library for astronomical data archive access and visualization

Github

Overview

Firefly is an innovative open-source web-based UI library specifically crafted for accessing and visualizing astronomical data. Developed at Caltech, this robust framework emerged from the needs at the NASA/IPAC Infrared Science Archive (IRSA) and has successfully expanded to accommodate a variety of data from multiple archives. Since its inception in 2015 and subsequent release on GitHub, Firefly has been embraced by developers and researchers alike, providing a powerful tool for crafting sophisticated front-end applications that leverage advanced data visualization techniques.

Designed to enhance the exploration of astronomical data, Firefly employs reusable React components that facilitate an integrated user experience with groundbreaking features such as brushing and linking between various data formats. Its versatile applications range from querying data from renowned missions like WISE and Spitzer to integrating with the NASA Exoplanet Science Institute and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory Science Platform.

Features

  • Open-Source: Firefly is fully open-sourced, allowing access to its source code, fostering community contributions, and ensuring continuous improvement.

  • Reusable React Components: It leverages the power of React components to build complex web applications, enabling an efficient development process.

  • Advanced Visualization: Offers state-of-the-art data visualization capabilities, enhancing the user’s ability to explore and analyze astronomical data interactively.

  • Brushing and Linking: Unique feature that enables users to interact with images, catalogs, and plots simultaneously, providing a cohesive data exploration experience.

  • Cross-Site API Access: The Firefly APIs can be easily used on any web page, regardless of server location, thanks to JSONP or CORS compatibility.

  • Quick Integration: With a minimal learning curve of around 10 minutes, web developers can quickly integrate Firefly’s powerful visualizers into their projects.

  • Docker Support: Firefly can be effortlessly deployed using Docker images, simplifying the setup and example access for new users.

  • FITS Viewing Capabilities: The default viewer tool allows users to retrieve and visualize FITS data, making astronomical analysis more accessible.