How far is a star or a galaxy? Scaling and measuring the cosmos is a complex problem. Scientists are integrating mathematical applications and scientific technology to create standards. Distances are so vast they are described in light years û the distance light travels in a year. Nearby stars are measured by trigonometry—the technique of parallax. Farther out, astronomers use so-called “standard candles”, the ‘Type Ia supernovae’ is the standard candle basis. Beyond that the electromagnetic “redshift” of galaxies reveals their distances.

Originally released by TMW Media Group, 2014. Streaming video file encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on February 08, 2017.

Measuring the Universe (2:16); --Milky Way Galaxy (2:02); -- Distant Galaxies (2:11); -- Cepheid Measurement? (3:07); -- Credits: Far Out - Measuring the Universe: Show me Science (0:22); .