Convert Parsec to Megaparsec
Convert parsecs to megaparsecs instantly. 1 parsec = 1e-6 megaparsec — use the live calculator, the exact formula, a conversion table and worked examples. Also check the Megaparsec to Parsec converter for the reverse conversion.
Units explained
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
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 to Megaparsec conversion formula
The relationship between parsecs and megaparsecs:
To convert parsecs to megaparsecs, multiply the value in parsecs by 1e-6. To reverse, multiply megaparsecs by 1000000.
How to use this converter
Type a value into the calculator. The result in megaparsecs updates as you type. Tap a quick value, copy the result with one click, or use the swap arrow to jump straight to the Megaparsec to Parsec converter for the reverse direction.
Step-by-step: convert parsecs to megaparsecs
- Write down the value in parsecs (pc).
- Multiply that value by the factor 1e-6.
- The product is the equivalent value in megaparsecs (Mpc).
- To reverse, multiply the megaparsec value by 1000000.
Worked examples
Example 1 — Convert 1 pc to Mpc:
1 × 1e-6 = 1e-6 Mpc
Example 2 — Convert 100 pc to Mpc:
100 × 1e-6 = 1e-4 Mpc
Parsec to Megaparsec conversion table
Standard reference values for converting parsecs to megaparsecs:
| Parsec [pc] | Megaparsec [Mpc] |
|---|---|
| 0.01 | 1e-8 |
| 0.1 | 1e-7 |
| 1 | 1e-6 |
| 2 | 2e-6 |
| 3 | 3e-6 |
| 4 | 4e-6 |
| 5 | 5e-6 |
| 10 | 1e-5 |
| 20 | 2e-5 |
| 30 | 3e-5 |
| 40 | 4e-5 |
| 50 | 5e-5 |
| 100 | 1e-4 |
| 500 | 0.0005 |
| 1000 | 0.001 |
Frequently asked questions
How many megaparsecs is 1 parsec?
How do I convert parsecs to megaparsecs?
How do I convert megaparsecs back to parsecs?
How many megaparsecs is 100 parsecs?
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Sources & references
Conversion factor (1 pc = 1e-6 Mpc) 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.