ScaleTrip methodology

Distance and units

Every input is normalized to metres. One international mile is calculated as exactly 1,609.344 metres. Only the display changes between km and mi.

Choosing a reference

The nearest of 56 references is selected by the smallest logarithmic difference. This better represents a multiplicative “how many times larger” comparison than simple subtraction.

Visual compression

Object size and position are compressed logarithmically so the journey remains legible on one screen. The underlying distance values are not compressed. Astronomical separation and perspective diagrams are explanatory, not literal scale drawings.

Travel time

Time = distance ÷ speed. The calculation assumes uninterrupted motion at 5 km/h walking, 100 km/h by car, 300 km/h by high-speed train, 900 km/h by airliner and 28,000 km/h by spacecraft. It excludes route, stops, acceleration, fuel, atmosphere and orbital mechanics.

Data caveats

Building heights and geographic extents are representative educational values. Astronomical entries include mean distances and representative close approaches; real values can vary with definition and time.