The process of setting the distance scale of the Universe, together with the problems encountered and the associated errors will be the topic of discussion at the department seminar. Although one sees in the media distances quoted with a sense of definiteness, there are a host of problems in the derivation of those distances which we as scientists should acknowledge. The steps to the most distant reaches of the universe include trigonometric parallaxes, the use of certain pulsating stars as distance indicators, and finally velocities in the line of sight, the red shift relation.

Dr. Landolt is a professor of Physics & Astronomy at Louisiana State University.

Funding for this lecture is provided in part by the Harlow Shapley Visiting Lectureships Endowment Fund.