Spectral Index Skill

Compute spectral indices from multi-frequency radio astronomy images.

Updated Aug 27, 2026

Search Tags:#data processing #imaging #astrophysics #spectral index #radio astronomy #SED

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/dsa110/dsa110-contimg --skill spectral-index-skill

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Spectral Index Skill
Source: https://github.com/dsa110/dsa110-contimg/tree/main/backend/.github/skills/spectral-index
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/dsa110/dsa110-contimg --skill spectral-index-skill

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill automates the computation of spectral indices from multi-frequency radio astronomy images, providing crucial insights into the physical properties of celestial sources.

Core Features & Use Cases

Pixel-by-Pixel Analysis: Generates spectral index maps for detailed spatial analysis.
Source SED Extraction: Computes Spectral Energy Distributions (SEDs) for cataloged sources.
Use Case: Analyze a region of the sky observed at multiple frequencies to identify sources with different emission mechanisms (e.g., thermal vs. non-thermal) by examining their spectral index values.

Quick Start

Use the spectral-index skill to compute a spectral index map from the provided image files.

Frequently Asked Questions about Spectral Index Skill

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I compute spectral indices from multi-frequency radio astronomy images?▼

To compute spectral indices from multi-frequency radio astronomy images, you analyze pixel-by-pixel variations across observed frequencies to generate spectral index maps. This process fits flux densities to infer source physics, requiring core imaging modules for accurate characterization.

What does a spectral index map show in radio astronomy data processing?▼

A spectral index map in radio astronomy data processing displays spatial variations of the spectral index α across an observed region. It reveals localized emission mechanisms, such as distinguishing thermal from non-thermal radiation, by mapping pixel-by-pixel spectral energy distribution changes.

Can I extract source spectral energy distributions from radio imaging data?▼

Yes, you can extract source spectral energy distributions (SEDs) from radio imaging data by analyzing multi-frequency images. The process computes SEDs for cataloged sources to perform detailed astrophysical characterization and infer underlying source physics.

Do I need DSA-110 pipeline stages for spectral index calculation?▼

Yes, calculating spectral indices requires DSA-110 pipeline stages and core imaging modules. These dependencies are necessary to ensure accurate flux density fitting and proper visualization for detailed astrophysical characterization of radio sources.

When do I need spectral index computation for astrophysical source classification?▼

You need spectral index computation for astrophysical source classification when analyzing a sky region observed at multiple frequencies. It identifies sources with different emission mechanisms by examining their spectral index values to distinguish thermal versus non-thermal radiation.