Convert Parsec to Kiloparsec
Convert parsecs to kiloparsecs instantly. 1 parsec = 0.001 kiloparsec — use the live calculator, the exact formula, a conversion table and worked examples. Also check the Kiloparsec 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.
Kiloparsec
A kiloparsec is a distance unit equal to 1,000 parsecs (about 3.09×10¹⁹ m). It is used to express galactic-scale distances.
Combines the metric-style prefix kilo- with the parsec. Standardised in astronomy as the natural unit for distances within and between galaxies.
Kiloparsecs are used to express galactic radii (the Milky Way is roughly 8 kpc from center to Sun), galactic-cluster scales, and distances within the Local Group.
Exact via the parsec; standardised by IAU 2015 along with parsec.
Parsec to Kiloparsec conversion formula
The relationship between parsecs and kiloparsecs:
To convert parsecs to kiloparsecs, multiply the value in parsecs by 0.001. To reverse, multiply kiloparsecs by 1000.
How to use this converter
Type a value into the calculator. The result in kiloparsecs updates as you type. Tap a quick value, copy the result with one click, or use the swap arrow to jump straight to the Kiloparsec to Parsec converter for the reverse direction.
Step-by-step: convert parsecs to kiloparsecs
- Write down the value in parsecs (pc).
- Multiply that value by the factor 0.001.
- The product is the equivalent value in kiloparsecs (kpc).
- To reverse, multiply the kiloparsec value by 1000.
Worked examples
Example 1 — Convert 1 pc to kpc:
1 × 0.001 = 0.001 kpc
Example 2 — Convert 100 pc to kpc:
100 × 0.001 = 0.1 kpc
Parsec to Kiloparsec conversion table
Standard reference values for converting parsecs to kiloparsecs:
| Parsec [pc] | Kiloparsec [kpc] |
|---|---|
| 0.01 | 1e-5 |
| 0.1 | 0.0001 |
| 1 | 0.001 |
| 2 | 0.002 |
| 3 | 0.003 |
| 4 | 0.004 |
| 5 | 0.005 |
| 10 | 0.01 |
| 20 | 0.02 |
| 30 | 0.03 |
| 40 | 0.04 |
| 50 | 0.05 |
| 100 | 0.1 |
| 500 | 0.5 |
| 1000 | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
How many kiloparsecs is 1 parsec?
How do I convert parsecs to kiloparsecs?
How do I convert kiloparsecs back to parsecs?
How many kiloparsecs is 100 parsecs?
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Sources & references
Conversion factor (1 pc = 0.001 kpc) 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.