Measuring Light Years: How Far Is the Andromeda Galaxy?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the measurement of the distance to the Andromeda Galaxy in light years, exploring the methods and concepts involved in determining such astronomical distances.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how the distance to the Andromeda Galaxy, stated as 2.2 to 3 million light years, is measured.
  • Another participant suggests reading an article on the cosmic distance ladder, which may provide insights into the methods used for such measurements.
  • A different participant highlights the historical significance of Cepheid variables in establishing the existence of galaxies beyond the Milky Way.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not appear to reach a consensus on the specific methods used to measure the distance to the Andromeda Galaxy, and multiple viewpoints regarding measurement techniques are present.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference external sources that may contain assumptions or definitions relevant to the discussion, but these are not fully explored within the thread.

JustATheory
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I was reading up on the Andromeda Galaxy and it was saying that it was 2.2 to 3 million light years away from earth. So my question is how do we measure how far it is in light years?
 
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Awesome thank you!
 
In fact, Cepheids were used to establish the fact that galaxies other than the Milky Way actually existed in the universe! re: http://hubblesite.org/newscenter/archive/releases/2011/15
 

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