Future Astronauts!
When you observe the sky, you want to catch a glimpse of the white, circular, shiny moon. However, the moon is far from us. You can enjoy the stars in the sky only by looking at them. What do you think of space? Do you have any ideas about it? It is far away too. So, can we calculate distances in space? Take a closer look at these questions.
What is Space?
Space is a region beyond the limits of the Earth’s atmosphere. It is the limitless three-dimensional extent in which objects have a specific location and direction. It is one of the fundamental concepts in physics. It is immense.
A ruler could assist in drawing a line or measuring a possible distance; however, in the case of space, a ruler can no longer help you. Measuring distances in space is not easy. It is vast.
Astronomers play an important role. They are scientists whose major focus is to study questions or fields beyond the scope of Earth. Their several attempts and analyses have often failed. Measuring distances in space is challenging because the objects are too far away.
How Do We Measure Distances in Space?
Here are a few methods that help measure distances:
Parallax
This method helps measure the distance to nearby stars, typically within 100 light-years. It is known as the stellar parallax method and involves the shift in apparent position as the Earth moves in its orbit around the Sun.
Radar
This method is used within the solar system. It relies on the fact that light travels at a speed of 300,000 km/sec, regardless of the form of light.
Distance (d)=Speed (v)×Time (t)
By sending a form of light toward an object and calculating the time it takes to return, we can determine the distance.
Cepheids
Cepheids are variable stars that have a consistent relationship between their brightness and pulsation period. This method is used to measure distances in nearby galaxies, up to about 20 million light-years. This technique applies only to objects with known luminosity; if the object’s brightness cannot be determined, the method does not work.
Supernovae
Supernovae can help measure distances of about 1 billion light-years in other galaxies. Astronomers use a method known as the “standard candle,” which involves using an object whose intrinsic brightness is known. The brightness from a supernova can help measure the distance.
Triangulation
This method is used to measure interstellar distances. In this approach, a long enough baseline is created for accuracy, and then a straight line is extended to a point on the object to measure the angle formed between the baseline and the line.
Conclusion
In short, measuring distances in space is challenging. Various techniques are used over long periods to gather a lot of information to understand the origins and components of the universe.
Do you want to become an astronaut?
