A Survey on File Format for Data Storage in Radio Astronomy

In this paper, we review the file formats for data storage in radio astronomy. As a standard format used in astronomy, Flexible Image Transport System (FITS) is discussed firstly. Random Group FITS File (UVFITS) and FITS Interferometry Data Interchange (FITS-IDI) based on FITS are highlighted. And VOTable promoted by the development of Virtual Observatory (VO) is also briefly reviewed. We all know that the Common Astronomy Software Applications package (CASA) is a science data analysis package for the Atacama Large Millimeter/sub millimeter Array (ALMA). As the fundamental format of CASA, Measurement Set (MS) is emphatically reviewed. Also, a new Science Data Model (SDM) designed to be used in ALMA telescope during the observing process and offline in the ALMA science data archive is expected to play an important role in the format of radio astronomy data storage. In the end, we present a study about the imports and exports of the formats to show the advantage and disadvantage on storage space of each format. Meanwhile, a conclusion has been made.