Measuring stellar distances
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Measuring stellar distances
Diagram showing how astronomers measure the distances to nearby stars using trigonometric parallax. When you hold your finger up in front of your face and close one eye and then the other, its position relative to the background changes " a phenomenon known as parallax. It occurs because each eye sees the finger from a slightly different position. Similarly, the nearest stars seem to move relative to the more distant background stars, as the Earth orbits the Sun. When the Earth in on one side of its orbit, say in January, a nearby star will have a certain position relative to the background stars. But six months later, the stars location will change by a tiny amount, an angle known as the trigonometric parallax. Knowing this angle and the diameter of Earths orbit (300 million km), astronomers can calculate the distances to these nearby stars with a fairly high accuracy
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Media ID 9207397
© Weldon Owen pty ltd
Astronomer Distances Nearby Parallax Star Trigonometry Trigonometric
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Measuring Stellar Distances" offers a visual representation of how astronomers determine the distances to nearby stars using trigonometric parallax. The diagram beautifully illustrates the concept by drawing an analogy between observing one's finger with each eye closed in front of their face and measuring the position of nearby stars against the background. As we hold our finger up and alternate closing one eye and then the other, its position relative to the background changes due to parallax. This same phenomenon occurs when Earth orbits around the Sun, causing nearby stars to appear to move relative to more distant background stars. Astronomers refer to this minute change in angle as trigonometric parallax. By precisely measuring this angle and combining it with Earth's orbit diameter (approximately 300 million km), astronomers can calculate distances to these neighboring stars with remarkable accuracy. This method provides valuable insights into understanding stellar distances within our universe. Mark Garlick's stunning depiction not only showcases his artistic talent but also highlights the intricate nature of space exploration and astronomy. It serves as a reminder that through meticulous observation, calculations, and scientific principles like trigonometry, humans have made significant strides in unraveling celestial mysteries that lie beyond our planet's boundaries.
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