Members Only Event
Introduction to the Universe - a monthly astronomy talk.

An additional night for members, second Wednesday of each month.
For Hamilton Astronomical Society members only.

Tonight (May 11th):
Measuring Distances In Space - Part 1: Principles & Methods
With guest speaker Chris Benton from Auckland Astronomical Society.

Descriptions of most astronomical objects such as planets, stars and galaxies usually include how far away from Earth they are. The quoted distance may involve millions of kilometres, lightyears or parsecs.

Tonight’s talk is Part 1 of 2, discussing the principles and methods used to measure distances across space. First, we cover what lightyears and parsecs refer to and when astronomers use them, followed by the principles of geometric trigonometry, standard candles, spectral redshifts, standard sirens and standard rulers. We will then review the numerous methods involving those fundamental principles, including how water masers are a new powerful tool, plus what’s going on inside Cepheid variable stars that makes them so important in this field of astronomy.

In June, Part 2 will discuss how scientists use the cosmic distance ladder to calibrate these measurements and maximise precision. We will also discuss the Hubble tension and offer a solution.

There’s something for everyone in this two-part series. We look forward to seeing you!

NOTES

• Masks to be worn.