Skip to content
SpaceWonder

    Type to search · ↑↓ to move · Enter to open

    Distance & light

    Parsec Converter

    Convert parsecs to light-years, AU and km.

    1 pc = 648,000/π AU ≈ 3.2616 ly

    Inputs

    Results

    Kilometres
    3.08568 × 10^13 km
    Astronomical units
    206,265 AU
    Light-years
    3.26156 light-years
    Parsecs
    1 parsecs
    Light travel time
    3.262 years
    Worked solution
    1. 3.0857 × 10^16 m ÷ 1.496 × 10^11 = 206,260 AU
    2. 3.0857 × 10^16 m ÷ 9.4607 × 10^15 = 3.2616 ly
    3. 3.0857 × 10^16 m ÷ 3.0857 × 10^16 = 1 pc

    How it works

    A parsec is the distance at which 1 AU subtends one arcsecond — the basis of stellar parallax measurements. Professional astronomers use parsecs, kiloparsecs and megaparsecs.

    Variables

    • AU — astronomical unit = 149,597,870,700 m
    • ly — light-year = 9,460,730,472,580,800 m
    • pc — parsec ≈ 3.0857 × 10¹⁶ m

    Assumptions and limits

    • IAU 2012 exact AU; light-year uses the Julian year (365.25 days)
    • Parsec defined as 648,000/π AU (IAU 2015 Resolution B2)

    For education only. These models are simplified and are not suitable for spacecraft navigation or safety-critical engineering. See our scientific accuracy policy.