Convert Parsec to Centimeter
Convert parsecs to centimeters instantly. 1 parsec = 3.085678e+18 centimeter — use the live calculator, the exact formula, a conversion table and worked examples. Also check the Centimeter 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.
Centimeter
A centimeter is a metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter (1/100 m). It is one of the most commonly used SI sub-units in daily life, especially for measuring small objects, body dimensions, paper sizes, and short distances.
The centimeter emerged from the French metric system established by the French Academy of Sciences in 1793. The metric system introduced decimal-based prefixes (milli-, centi-, deci-, deca-, hecto-, kilo-) to create proportional sub-units of the meter.
Centimeters are the standard unit for everyday measurement in nearly every country outside the United States. They are used for body height, clothing sizes, rainfall, paper formats (A4 is 21 × 29.7 cm), screen dimensions, and most consumer product specifications.
Developed in France during the late 18th century as part of the metric system designed by the French Academy of Sciences. Formally adopted in France in 1795 and ratified internationally through the Metre Convention signed in Paris in 1875.
Parsec to Centimeter conversion formula
The relationship between parsecs and centimeters:
To convert parsecs to centimeters, multiply the value in parsecs by 3.085678e+18. To reverse, multiply centimeters by 3.240779e-19.
How to use this converter
Type a value into the calculator. The result in centimeters updates as you type. Tap a quick value, copy the result with one click, or use the swap arrow to jump straight to the Centimeter to Parsec converter for the reverse direction.
Step-by-step: convert parsecs to centimeters
- Write down the value in parsecs (pc).
- Multiply that value by the factor 3.085678e+18.
- The product is the equivalent value in centimeters (cm).
- To reverse, multiply the centimeter value by 3.240779e-19.
Worked examples
Example 1 — Convert 1 pc to cm:
1 × 3.085678e+18 = 3.085678e+18 cm
Example 2 — Convert 100 pc to cm:
100 × 3.085678e+18 = 3.085678e+20 cm
Parsec to Centimeter conversion table
Standard reference values for converting parsecs to centimeters:
| Parsec [pc] | Centimeter [cm] |
|---|---|
| 0.01 | 3.085678e+16 |
| 0.1 | 3.085678e+17 |
| 1 | 3.085678e+18 |
| 2 | 6.171355e+18 |
| 3 | 9.257033e+18 |
| 4 | 1.234271e+19 |
| 5 | 1.542839e+19 |
| 10 | 3.085678e+19 |
| 20 | 6.171355e+19 |
| 30 | 9.257033e+19 |
| 40 | 1.234271e+20 |
| 50 | 1.542839e+20 |
| 100 | 3.085678e+20 |
| 500 | 1.542839e+21 |
| 1000 | 3.085678e+21 |
Frequently asked questions
How many centimeters is 1 parsec?
How do I convert parsecs to centimeters?
How do I convert centimeters back to parsecs?
How many centimeters is 100 parsecs?
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Sources & references
Conversion factor (1 pc = 3.085678e+18 cm) 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.