Convert Megaparsec to Parsec
Convert megaparsecs to parsecs instantly. 1 megaparsec = 1000000 parsec — use the live calculator, the exact formula, a conversion table and worked examples. Also check the Parsec to Megaparsec converter for the reverse conversion.
Units explained
Megaparsec
A megaparsec is a distance unit equal to one million parsecs (about 3.09×10²² m). It is the standard unit for cosmological-scale distances.
Combines the metric-style prefix mega- with the parsec. Standardised in astronomy for inter-galactic distances and cosmological calculations.
Megaparsecs are used in cosmology to express distances to other galaxies (Andromeda is ~0.78 Mpc), galaxy-cluster separations, and the Hubble constant (typically quoted as ~70 km/s per Mpc).
Exact via the parsec; the megaparsec is the standard scale unit in modern cosmology.
Parsec
A parsec (parallax-second) is a distance unit equal to 648,000/π astronomical units — approximately 3.086×10¹⁶ m (3.26 light years). It is the standard distance unit in professional astronomy.
Defined as the distance at which one astronomical unit subtends an angle of one arcsecond. IAU Resolution B2 in 2015 made this an exact definition: 1 pc = (648,000/π) AU.
Parsecs are used in professional astronomy for stellar distances (Proxima Centauri ≈ 1.3 pc), galactic-scale distances (with prefixes kiloparsec and megaparsec), and parallax measurements. Standard since the early 20th century.
Concept introduced by Herbert Hall Turner in 1913; exact definition via the AU adopted by IAU Resolution B2 in 2015.
Megaparsec to Parsec conversion formula
The relationship between megaparsecs and parsecs:
To convert megaparsecs to parsecs, multiply the value in megaparsecs by 1000000. To reverse, multiply parsecs by 1e-6.
How to use this converter
Type a value into the calculator. The result in parsecs updates as you type. Tap a quick value, copy the result with one click, or use the swap arrow to jump straight to the Parsec to Megaparsec converter for the reverse direction.
Step-by-step: convert megaparsecs to parsecs
- Write down the value in megaparsecs (Mpc).
- Multiply that value by the factor 1000000.
- The product is the equivalent value in parsecs (pc).
- To reverse, multiply the parsec value by 1e-6.
Worked examples
Example 1 — Convert 1 Mpc to pc:
1 × 1000000 = 1000000 pc
Example 2 — Convert 100 Mpc to pc:
100 × 1000000 = 1e+8 pc
Megaparsec to Parsec conversion table
Standard reference values for converting megaparsecs to parsecs:
| Megaparsec [Mpc] | Parsec [pc] |
|---|---|
| 0.01 | 10000 |
| 0.1 | 100000 |
| 1 | 1000000 |
| 2 | 2000000 |
| 3 | 3000000 |
| 4 | 4000000 |
| 5 | 5000000 |
| 10 | 1e+7 |
| 20 | 2e+7 |
| 30 | 3e+7 |
| 40 | 4e+7 |
| 50 | 5e+7 |
| 100 | 1e+8 |
| 500 | 5e+8 |
| 1000 | 1e+9 |
Frequently asked questions
How many parsecs is 1 megaparsec?
How do I convert megaparsecs to parsecs?
How do I convert parsecs back to megaparsecs?
How many parsecs is 100 megaparsecs?
Popular length unit conversions
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Metric / SI (4 units)
Imperial / US Customary (4 units)
Astronomical (8 units)
Sources & references
Conversion factor (1 Mpc = 1000000 pc) verified against the following authoritative sources:
- BIPM — The International System of Units (SI Brochure 9th ed.)
Official BIPM publication defining the seven SI base units (including the meter) and the rules for their use. The global authority on units of measurement.
- NIST — Guide to the SI
US National Institute of Standards and Technology reference covering the SI base and derived units with definitions and usage rules for US technical practice.
- NIST Special Publication 811 — Guide for the Use of the International System of Units
Detailed NIST guide covering exact conversion factors between SI and US customary units along with formatting and rounding conventions.
- NIST — Refinement of values for the yard and pound (Federal Register 1959)
The treaty (signed by US
- International Astronomical Union — System of Astronomical Constants
The IAU defines astronomical units including the AU (149597870700 m exactly) light-year and parsec used in astronomy and astrophysics.