What is the immediate step following the acquisition of three grayscale data sets from different filters?

Image processors assign those grayscale maps to the red, green, and blue (RGB) channels

The process of generating a color image from Hubble data relies on assembling distinct, monochromatic intensity maps gathered through various filters. Once the astronomer has these separate grayscale images—each representing the intensity detected at a specific wavelength—the next critical step is the translation phase. Image processors take these individual grayscale data sets and allocate them to the three primary color channels (Red, Green, and Blue) of a standard color image format. This assignment is the precise moment when the raw scientific data begins its transformation into a visual experience, often following conventions like the Hubble Palette or attempts to mimic true color.