Astra FAQ
Here is our Astra FAQ! Astra is our first creative video upscaler.
What is Astra?
Astra is a web-based tool designed to creatively upscale and enhance videos using AI. It’s especially great for AI-generated content but works well for a variety of creative video workflows.
Is Astra the same as Starlight?
Not quite. Starlight is the name of the AI model family powering Astra. Astra is the product, built around these advanced models.
Can I use Astra on my desktop like other Topaz apps?
Astra is only available via web browser and is not included in desktop apps like Gigapixel, Photo AI, or Video AI.
Will Astra be available offline in the future?
Currently, there are no plans to offer a local version of Astra.
Is Astra replacing Starlight?
Astra is the evolution of Starlight’s early web version. All features from the Starlight preview and more are now included in Astra.
Use Cases & Capabilities
What is Astra best for?
Astra is built for enhancing and upscaling videos with creative intent—perfect for AI-generated content, stylized edits, and final polish.
What are Precise and Creative modes?
- Precise Mode enhances detail while keeping the original look intact. Great for restoration and faithful upscaling.
- Quality: Best results using our highest-fidelity model.
- Speed: Faster and more cost-efficient, ideal for previews or quick outputs.
- Creative Mode takes artistic liberties to enhance visual quality with more noticeable transformations.
- Subtle: keep details closer to your original
- Bold: Add new details with a creative spin
I work with old footage. Is Astra for me?
Astra focuses on AI content and creative workflows. A separate product, Restore, is in the works for archival and traditional restoration.
Plans & Credits
Does the Plus plan allow commercial use?
Yes, the Plus plan includes commercial use and covers contractors doing client work.
Do credits roll over?
Yes. Both monthly and top-up credits roll over without a cap on how much you can accumulate.
How many free credits do I get as a new user?
New Astra users do not receive free credits. Some web app users may receive promotional credits—this isn’t a free plan or trial.
Can I cancel and still access rendered videos?
You’ll retain access as long as your subscription is active. Details for post-cancellation access are still being finalized.
How long are my videos stored?
Rendered videos remain stored for active subscribers. Storage terms for future free or trial users are still under consideration.
Technical Info
What formats are supported?
Astra supports common video formats such as MP4. We're working on expanding support for additional formats like ProRes MOV and improving error messaging for unsupported files.
What are the frame limits?
- Creative Mode: Up to 450 frames
- Precise Mode: Up to 9000 frames
Are variable frame rate (VFR) videos supported?
Not at this time. Better error handling for VFR files is in progress.
Is the pricing based on 30fps?
Yes, pricing calculations assume a standard frame rate of 30fps.
Will Astra work in any browser?
Astra works best in modern browsers like Chrome and Firefox. Support for lesser-known browsers may vary.
Can I see estimated render or queue times?
We’re working on adding processing and waiting time estimates to improve transparency.
Feature Requests in Progress
- Support for additional input formats (e.g. .mov)
- Bitrate and compression options
- Alpha channel support
- Optimized mobile browser experience
- Clearer notifications for unsupported files
- Enhanced error messages and retry/report options