General
Astronomical Unit Calculator
Convert distances between astronomical units (AU) and other common astronomical distance measurements.
Enter a value and select units to see the conversion result
Related to Astronomical Unit Calculator
The Astronomical Unit Calculator converts distances between astronomical units (AU) and other common astronomical distance measurements. It uses the exact definition of 1 AU = 149,597,870,700 meters, as established by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in 2012. This calculator enables conversions between astronomical units and other distance units including kilometers, miles, light years, and parsecs.
Key Conversion Values
• 1 AU = 149,597,870,700 meters
• 1 Light Year ≈ 63,241 AU
• 1 Parsec ≈ 206,265 AU
• 1 AU ≈ 92,955,807 miles
The calculator displays results in scientific notation for large numbers to maintain precision and readability. The conversion takes into account the exact definitions of astronomical units and related measurements, providing accurate conversions for astronomical distances.
Common Applications
• Measuring distances within our solar system
• Converting astronomical research data
• Understanding space exploration distances
• Comparing planetary orbital distances
1. What is an Astronomical Unit (AU)?
An Astronomical Unit is a unit of length defined as exactly 149,597,870,700 meters. It was originally based on the average distance between Earth and the Sun, and is now a precisely defined unit used in astronomy and space science.
2. Why do we use Astronomical Units?
Astronomical Units are particularly useful for measuring distances within our solar system. They provide a more manageable scale than kilometers or miles when dealing with planetary distances, making it easier to comprehend and compare astronomical distances.
3. How accurate is the AU measurement?
The AU is now defined as exactly 149,597,870,700 meters, with no uncertainty. This precise definition was established by the International Astronomical Union in 2012, replacing the previous observation-based definition.
4. When should I use AU versus light years?
Use AU for distances within our solar system (like planetary orbits), and light years for interstellar distances (distances to other stars). For reference, 1 light year is about 63,241 AU, making AU more practical for solar system measurements.
5. What is the scientific source for this calculator?
This calculator uses the official definition of the astronomical unit as established by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) at their 28th General Assembly in 2012. The conversion factors are based on the IAU Resolution B2, which defines 1 AU as exactly 149,597,870,700 meters. Additional conversions use the International System of Units (SI) standards and the IAU's system of astronomical constants (2015), ensuring precise and standardized astronomical measurements.