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The apparent magnitude that a [[Star|star ]] would possess if it if were placed at a distance of 10 parsecs from [[Earth|Earth. ]] In this way, ''absolute '' magnitude provides a direct comparison of the brightness of [[Star|stars. The apparent magnitude of a star is based upon its ]] A [[Star|star’s]] luminosity and its distancefrom [[Earth]] provide the basis for its apparent magnitude. If all [[Star|stars ]] were placed at the same distance from [[Earth|Earth,]] then their apparent magnitudes would only be dependent on their luminosities. ThusTherefore, '''absolute magnitudes ''' are true indicators of the amount of [[Light|light ]] each [[Star|star ]] emits. The value is lower, even into the negatives, for objects that appear brighter, and higher for objects that appear dimmer. '''Absolute magnitude ''' is usually measured through the visible spectrum. However, it can be measured through the entire spectrum. Absolute visual magnitude, through the visible spectrum, is abbreviated as ''Mv.'' Compare "Apparent Magnitude," below.