> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://astra-image.gitbook.io/astra-image-6.0/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://astra-image.gitbook.io/astra-image-6.0/processing-tools/exponential-scale.md).

# Exponential Scale

The Exponential Scale adjustment uses the power of inverted pixels method to reveal faint details, especially in astronomical images.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/U0bin0ZPVm8fN08PCHf3" alt="The Exponential Scale tool."><figcaption><p>The Exponential Scale tool.</p></figcaption></figure></div>

**Exponential Scale Strength**\
This sets the strength of the overall adjustment. Higher values will lead to brighter images.

**Smoothing**\
In order to reduce noise, you can use set the smoothing factor. Be aware that using a setting that is too high may result in a blurry result, and using a setting that is too low may result in a noisy result. When you have set the smoothing factor, press the Update button to recalculate and update the preview.

**Protect bright areas**\
When this option is checked, brighter areas in the image will not be affected by the adjustment. This can help to produce balanced images where faint details are visible, but bright areas are no over-exposed.

<figure><img src="/files/Qrq9KgL2ziPcYGoMyZit" alt="The original image."><figcaption><p>The original image.</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/bfNEO52kHjP3Ye2VrAT4" alt="Processed with &#x27;Protect bright areas&#x27; turned OFF."><figcaption><p>Processed with 'Protect bright areas' turned OFF.</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/GUtMsEtZ0OrLDVpcBSzz" alt="Processed with &#x27;Protect bright areas&#x27; turned ON."><figcaption><p>Processed with 'Protect bright areas' turned ON.</p></figcaption></figure>