Image processing method for a computer to assist a user in assessment of a cultured embryo

An image processing method for a computer to assist a user in assessment of a cultured embryo, the image processing method comprising:

• acquiring original signal data by an imaging apparatus executing optical coherence tomography imaging or by receiving the original signal data obtained by optical coherence tomography imaging, the original signal data indicating an intensity distribution of signal light from each position in three-dimensional space including the embryo;
• generating spherical coordinate data based on the original signal data, the spherical coordinate data indicating a relationship between each position in the three-dimensional space represented using spherical coordinates having an origin set inside the embryo and the intensity of the signal light from the position;
• generating a two-dimensional map which represents the intensity distribution of the signal light using two deflection angles of the spherical coordinates as coordinate axes based on the spherical coordinate data;
• and
• outputting visually the two-dimensional map on a display.