Finding the present day distance to a galaxy

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SUMMARY

The distance modulus formula, m-M=5log(r/10), applied to Type Ia supernovae yields the distance to the host galaxy at the time of the supernova event. To calculate the present-day distance to a galaxy, one must incorporate the effects of cosmic expansion and the acceleration of that expansion due to dark energy. This involves using cosmological models, such as the Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model, and integrating the scale factor over time to account for the universe's expansion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of distance modulus in astronomy
  • Familiarity with Type Ia supernovae as standard candles
  • Knowledge of cosmological principles, particularly the expansion of the universe
  • Basic grasp of mathematical integration and cosmological models
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model for cosmic expansion
  • Learn about the integration of the scale factor in cosmology
  • Study the effects of dark energy on the universe's expansion
  • Explore advanced techniques for calculating distances in an expanding universe
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students studying cosmology who are interested in calculating distances to galaxies and understanding the implications of cosmic expansion.

tovisonnenberg
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TL;DR
Do distance calculations on supernovae only reveal the distance to the host galaxy at the time of the supernova?
Hi everyone! Does using the distance modulus—m-M=5log(r/10)—on type 1a supernovae only provide the distance to the host galaxy at the time of the supernova? If so, how would I mathematically determine the present day distance to a galaxy by taking into account both the expansion of the universe and the acceleration of that expansion?
 
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