Final answer:
Astronomers can manage relative distances between star systems by using cepheid variable stars and improved measurement techniques. By observing their luminosity and variations, they can estimate the distances with about 10% accuracy. Analogies are also used to visualize these vast distances more easily.
Step-by-step explanation:
To show the relative distance between star systems within the galaxy in a manageable manner, astronomers use various methods. Initially, they must establish the cosmic distance scale by finding distances to objects within our own Galaxy. One of the techniques involves using intrinsically luminous variable stars, known as cepheids, whose brightness varies in a predictable way. The period of their brightness variation is related to their luminosity, so by observing the period and measuring the apparent brightness, astronomers can determine their distance.
Furthermore, astronomers also look at images to see if there is anything, such as dust or other stars, between us and the nebula which can also give clues about the distance. Advanced techniques have improved the accuracy of the measurements to an accuracy of about 10%. To comprehend vast cosmic scales, analogies are often used; for example, if galaxies were the size of coins, the edge of the visible universe would be a modest distance away, comparable to the center of a small town.