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What characteristics of stars did Shapley study to measure Galactic distances?

  • Color

  • Mass

  • Cepheid variable stars

  • Stellar classification

Answer

Shapley studied Cepheid variable stars to measure Galactic distances. Cepheid variable stars are pulsating stars that change their brightness over time. They are named after the star Delta Cephei, which was the first Cepheid variable star discovered. Cepheid variable stars are used to measure Galactic distances because they are very bright and can be seen at great distances.
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