The Measurement of Astronomical Distances - To What Lengths Will Astronomers Go?

by
Professor Michael W. Friedlander
Washington University

How far the stars? “Up above the world so high...” is insufficiently precise! Measurement of distances is fundamental to any understanding of the structure and behavior of celestial objects. The range of distances is truly astronomical, from relatively nearby planets to the farthest galaxies. The distance-measuring toolbox contains a diverse set of instruments, including radar beams, Earth's motion around the Sun, pulsating giant stars, exploding stars, and color-shifted light. Dr. Friedlander will talk about the different methods and what they reveal about the local and distant universe and its evolution through time.

Michael Friedlander is a Professor of Physics and a Fellow of the McDonnell Center For the Space Sciences at Washington University. His professional research interests are focused on cosmic ray studies, and he is also expert in archaeo-astronomy and ancient observatories of Great Britain and the Americas. Dr. Friedlander is author of technical books and articles, as well as books for the non-scientist about cosmic rays and about pseudo-science and the fringes of science.