absolute magnitude

noun

, Astronomy.

1. the magnitude of a star as it would appear to a hypothetical observer at a distance of 10 parsecs or 32.6 light-years.

absolute magnitude

noun

1. the apparent magnitude a given star would have if it were situated at a distance of 10 parsecs (32.6 light years) from the earth

absolute magnitude

1. See under at magnitude

Word History and Origins

Origin of absolute magnitude¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

And the given absolute magnitude to which it is equal is the rectangle beneath the unequal segments, without gnomon.

From Project Gutenberg

The absolute magnitude of my misfortune only loomed upon me by degrees.

From Project Gutenberg

These relations are, absolute magnitude of force, relation of force and of the different arms mutually, and nature of the country.

From Project Gutenberg

When we say "absolute magnitude," we do not mean a magnitude which stands out of all relations to other facts in the universe.

From Project Gutenberg

What is the absolute magnitude of the near stars that are not contained in table?

From Project Gutenberg