Astronomical units to parsecs
Convert astronomical units (AU) to parsecs (pc) instantly with our precise online converter. Results are calculated using the exact scientific definitions of both units.
1 AU = 0.000004848137 pc
Formula
If you want to convert astronomical units to parsecs manually, use the formula below. This provides a quick approximation for everyday use. However, the converter uses definition-based constants computed at full numerical precision using the geometric definition of the parsec.
Conversion formula: pc = AU ÷ 206,264.806245
Scientific basis: This relationship follows directly from the definition of the parsec as the distance at which 1 AU subtends an angle of one arcsecond.
Equivalent value: 1 AU ≈ 0.000004848137 pc
Example: 500,000 AU = 500,000 ÷ 206,264.806245 = 2.424068 pc
Scientific derivation:
1 pc = 1 AU ÷ tan(1″)
1″ = π / (180 × 3600) radians
Rearranging gives the inverse conversion at full precision.
Explanation: To convert astronomical units to parsecs, divide by 206,264.806245 for quick manual calculations.
Table
| Astronomical Units (AU) | Parsecs (pc) |
|---|---|
| 100,000 AU | 0.484814 pc |
| 200,000 AU | 0.969627 pc |
| 300,000 AU | 1.454441 pc |
| 400,000 AU | 1.939255 pc |
| 500,000 AU | 2.424068 pc |
| 1,000,000 AU | 4.848137 pc |
| 2,500,000 AU | 12.120342 pc |
| 5,000,000 AU | 24.240684 pc |
| 7,500,000 AU | 36.361026 pc |
| 10,000,000 AU | 48.481368 pc |
FAQ
What is an astronomical unit (AU)?
An astronomical unit (AU) is a unit of length defined as exactly 149,597,870,700 meters. It corresponds closely to the average distance between Earth and the Sun and is commonly used to measure distances within the Solar System.
What is a parsec?
A parsec is an astronomical unit of distance defined geometrically as the distance at which one astronomical unit subtends an angle of one arcsecond. Astronomers commonly use parsecs to measure distances to stars, nebulae, and galaxies.
How many parsecs is 1 astronomical unit?
1 astronomical unit equals approximately 0.000004848137 parsecs. This value is a decimal representation of the exact geometric relationship between the astronomical unit and the parsec.
How do you convert astronomical units to parsecs?
To convert astronomical units to parsecs, divide the number of AU by 206,264.806245. This value is a decimal representation of the exact relationship derived from the scientific definitions of both units.
Example: 1,000,000 AU ÷ 206,264.806245 = 4.848137 pc
When do astronomers use parsecs instead of AU?
Astronomical units are typically used for distances within the Solar System, while parsecs are used for much larger interstellar and intergalactic distances where AU becomes impractically small.