What does absolute magnitude measure in relation to stars?

Absolute magnitude measures the brightness of a star as it would appear if it were positioned at a standard distance of 10 parsecs (approximately 32.6 light-years) from Earth. This standardized measurement allows astronomers to compare the inherent brightness of different stars without the distortion caused by their varying distances from Earth. While a star's apparent magnitude can vary greatly based on its distance and any interstellar material it may be shining through, absolute magnitude provides a consistent basis for evaluating and contrasting the true luminosity of stars. By using absolute magnitude, astronomers can better understand a star's characteristics and classify it within the broader context of stellar properties.