Measuring astronomical distances

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In summary, distance to other galaxies can be measured without relying on the linearity of distance with red-shift by using various methods such as cepheid variables and supernovae. Cepheids have a predictable brightness period and can be used to calculate distance, while supernovae have consistent absolute brightness and can serve as a yardstick for more distant galaxies. Other methods such as the TRGB, PNLF, GCLF, SBF, Tully-Fischer relationship, and Faber-Jackson relationship can also be used to estimate distances between cepheid and supernova ranges. GRBs are a potential method for extending the distance ladder beyond the limits of SN1a.
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Yoni
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How do we measure distance to another galaxy without using the linearity of distance with red-shift?
 
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To other galaxies - cepheid variables and supernovae

Cepheids are a variable star where the period of the brightness change depends on the mass and so the absolute brightness. If you can measure the period (easy) and the apparent brightness you can calculate the distance since you know that for a each doubling of distance the object appears 4x fainter.
For more distant galaxies where the cepheid would be too faint you can use supernova. Certain types have very repeatable absolute brightnesses because they result from a star of a certain size goign bang - again if you measure the apparent brightness you can work out the distance.
 
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Thanks, I understand now..
 
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Other fairly exotic yardsticks also exist [which helps us avoid being completely reliant on a single 'candle']. Examples include:Tip of the red giant branch (TRGB), Planetary nebula luminosity function (PNLF) Globular cluster luminosity function (GCLF) Surface brightness fluctuation (SBF), Tully-Fischer relationship, and the Faber-Jackson relationship. These indicators are useful for estimating distances between Cepheid and SN1a ranges. Another candidate in the making is GRB's [gamma ray bursts], which may extend the distance ladder beyond SN1a limits.
 

Related to Measuring astronomical distances

1. How do scientists measure astronomical distances?

Scientists use a variety of techniques to measure astronomical distances, including parallax, spectroscopy, and standard candles. These methods involve using the properties of light, such as its speed and wavelength, to calculate distances between celestial objects.

2. What is parallax and how is it used to measure distances?

Parallax is the apparent shift in the position of an object when viewed from different angles. In astronomy, scientists use the parallax effect to measure the distance to nearby stars. By observing how a star's position changes when viewed from opposite sides of Earth's orbit, scientists can calculate its distance from Earth.

3. How does spectroscopy help in measuring astronomical distances?

Spectroscopy is the study of the properties of light, including its wavelength and intensity. By analyzing the light emitted by celestial objects, scientists can determine their distance based on the redshift or blueshift of their spectral lines. This method is particularly useful for measuring the distances of distant galaxies.

4. What are standard candles and how do they aid in measuring distances?

Standard candles are objects with a known luminosity, such as certain types of stars or supernovae. By comparing the apparent brightness of these objects to their known luminosity, scientists can calculate their distance from Earth. This method is especially helpful for measuring distances to very distant objects in the universe.

5. What is the unit of measurement used for astronomical distances?

The unit of measurement commonly used for astronomical distances is the light-year, which is the distance that light travels in one year. This is equivalent to about 9.46 trillion kilometers or 5.88 trillion miles. For even larger distances, scientists may use the unit of megaparsec, which is equal to one million parsecs.

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