Parsec: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'parsec' is a blend of 'parallax' and 'second', relating to how we measure distance using angles.
• It was first used in 1913 by the American astronomer Herbert Curtis.

Astronomy

• A parsec is based on the distance at which one astronomical unit subtends an angle of one arcsecond.
• The closest star system to our own, Alpha Centauri, is about 1.34 parsecs away.
• Many distant galaxies are millions of parsecs away, showcasing the vastness of the universe.

Science Fiction

• In the Star Wars universe, the Millennium Falcon famously made the Kessel Run in less than twelve parsecs, which hints at its speed.
• Parsec is often used in science fiction to portray massive distances in space travel, sparking interest in astronomy.

Comparison with Other Units

• One parsec is equivalent to about 3.26 light-years, making it a significant measurement for interstellar distances.
• To put it in perspective, our Milky Way galaxy is about 100,000 light-years in diameter, or around 30,000 parsecs.

Cultural Significance

• The concept of parsecs has influenced various scientific discussions and pop culture, symbolizing the exploration of outer space.
• Astronomers and enthusiasts often refer to parsecs in their discussions about star distances and cosmic events.

Ranking #39,037, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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