Parallax Theory

Parallax Theory explains how we determine the distance to nearby objects by observing their apparent position change against distant backgrounds when viewed from different angles. For example, as you move your head side to side, a nearby tree appears to shift against the distant mountains. This shift, called parallax, helps astronomers measure how far stars are from Earth. By calculating the slight differences in a star's position from different points in Earth's orbit, scientists can accurately estimate its distance in space. Essentially, parallax leverages relative motion and perspective to gauge how far away objects are.