How to use the astronomical unit calculator
Prepare the values for this calculation
Convert astronomical units to meters and kilometers using the exact IAU definition of 1 au. Use the formula below to check that it answers your question. Read the input units before transferring figures from a statement, measurement or dataset.
Enter and check each input
- Distance (au): enter a finite number. Use the unit named in the label or selected above. Do not leave this required field blank.
The input table gives a complete example. Keep units and time periods consistent across related fields.
Calculate and resolve any input error
Choose Calculate after entering the values. Changes also update the answer after a short pause. If an error appears, follow its message, correct the field and calculate again. Reset restores the example values.
Interpret the answer
Check Distance in meters first. With the unchanged example inputs, it is 149,597,870,700 m. Compare the additional metrics with the primary result; each has its own label and unit.
Compare and keep a useful result
For a controlled comparison, keep every other example input unchanged and change Distance (au) from 1 to 1.1. The resulting Distance in meters is 164,557,657,770 m. This illustrates the equation’s response to that input, rather than a forecast of real events.
Read the chart’s axis labels and data table. A scenario curve changes one stated input while holding the others fixed; it does not add external observations. Use Download graph to save an available chart as a PNG.
Use Copy result or Download CSV to keep the answer. Share tool shares the page address without placing your input values in the URL. Recheck inputs and assumptions before using the result for a decision.
Astronomical Unit Calculator formula
distance = AU × 149,597,870,700 m.
Inputs and units
| Input | Format / range | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Distance (au) | Number | 1 |
Worked example
Using the example inputs above, the distance in meters is 149,597,870,700 m.
- Distance in meters
- 149,597,870,700 m
- Kilometers
- 149,597,870.7 km
- Exact meters per au
- 149597870700
Results and assumptions
The output uses the distance in meters convention and formula shown above. Match the entered units and source assumptions when comparing results.
Fix an input or unexpected result
Distance (au) is required. Enter distance (au) using the format and bounds in the input table. Zero and an empty field are different: use zero only if it is allowed and represents your data.
If your answer differs from the example, choose Reset and compare every field, including selected units and options. Check percentage versus decimal entry and whether values describe the same period. Round only the final displayed answer when reproducing the formula.
If a discrepancy remains, report the calculator issue with the page address, non-sensitive example inputs, actual result, expected result and a reference for your calculation.