Parsec to Fathom Converter

A parsec (pc) is a unit of length used in astronomy, equal to approximately 3.26 light-years or 206,265 astronomical units. It is defined as the distance at which one astronomical unit subtends an angle of one arcsecond.

The parsec was defined in 1913 by British astronomer Herbert Hall Turner. The name combines 'parallax' and 'arcsecond', referring to the trigonometric parallax method used to measure stellar distances. It became the preferred unit for professional astronomical distance measurements.

Parsecs are the standard unit for measuring stellar and galactic distances in professional astronomy. They're used in stellar catalogs, galactic structure studies, and cosmological research. Kiloparsecs and megaparsecs are used for larger cosmic distances.

A fathom is a unit of length primarily used for measuring the depth of water, equal to 6 feet or approximately 1.83 meters. It represents the span of a person's outstretched arms.

The fathom derives from the Old English 'fæthm' meaning 'outstretched arms' or 'embrace'. It was originally based on the distance between the fingertips of a person's outstretched arms, typically about 6 feet. It has been used for measuring water depth since ancient times.

Fathoms are still used in some maritime contexts for measuring water depth, particularly in traditional sailing and fishing communities. However, meters are increasingly preferred for official nautical charts and modern navigation systems.