Using a stellar astrometric catalog, we find that the two stars closest to HT Ca

Question

Using a stellar astrometric catalog, we find that the two stars closest to HT Cas are a distance of 0.01 arcseconds apart. Based on this information, we can estimate that the angle of shift of HT Cas (the parallax angle) to be approximately 0.015 arcseconds apart.

We also know that the radius of the Earth’s orbit is 1.0 A.U. (astronomical units).

Using these two measurements, we can then determine the approximate distance to HT Cas using the following equation:

a

d = -----

p/2

d= distance to HT Cas

a=radius of the Earth’s orbit

p=parallax angle

(10 points) Given the above equation and information provided, about how far away is HT Cas?

a. 133 parsecs

b. 67 parsecs

c. 33 parsecs

d. 0.15 parsecs

Answer::

(10 points) Your answer was calculated in parsecs. Given that 1 parsec = 3.2616 light years, about what is the distance to HT Cas in light years? (Your answer in parsecs X 3.2616 light years = The Distance to HT Cas in light years).

a. 0.025 light years

b. 217 light years

c. 434 light years

d. 219 light years

Answer:

Based on your answer, do you think this is a star that we might be able to send a space probe to? Why or why not? Support your answer

Explanation / Answer

1) d = a / (p/2) = earths radius = 1

parallax angle = 0.015

d= 1/ ( 0.015/2) = 133persecs

2)c) 133persecs = 434 light years ( 133 * 3.2616= 434)

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