Convert Earth's Distance from Sun (AU (es)) to Furlong (fur) instantly.
About these units
Earth's Distance from Sun (AU (es))
The average distance from the Earth to the Sun is approximately 1 astronomical unit (AU) = 149,597,870.7 km. This distance forms the basis for measuring interplanetary distances within the solar system. Astronomers rely on the AU to calculate orbital periods, planetary alignments, and the intensity of solar radiation at different planets. Its precise measurement comes from radar ranging to planets, spacecraft telemetry, and observations of orbital mechanics. The AU provides a human-scaled reference for the vast distances in the solar system, bridging Earth-based intuition with astronomical scales. It is a cornerstone unit in celestial mechanics and planetary science.
Furlong (fur)
A furlong, equal to 10 chains or 660 feet, originated as the distance a team of oxen could plow before needing rest. Its name derives from "furrow-long," indicating the length of a typical plowed furrow in medieval agriculture. This agricultural basis linked the furlong to the acre: a rectangle one furlong long and one chain wide equaled one acre in area. Today, the furlong is most notably used in horse racing, where race distances are often measured in furlongs rather than miles. This tradition reflects both the unit's historical importance and its suitability for describing moderate distances. While archaic in most contexts, the furlong remains a culturally iconic measure that connects modern sports to medieval agricultural practices.