Computing the nth digit of π directly

Computing the nth digit of π directly

The following equation, known as the BBP formula [1], will let you compute the nth digit of π directly without having to compute the previous digits. I’ve seen this claim many times, but I’ve never seen it explained in much detail how this formula lets you extract digits of π. First of all, this formula lets you calculate the digits of π, not in base 10, but in base 16, i.e. in hexadecimal. It looks like the BBP formula might let you extract hex…

Pi Day in Space: How π Powers Spacecraft Navigation and Orbital Mechanics

Every year on March 14 (3.14), we celebrate Pi Day, honoring the mathematical constant π (Pi)—the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. While Pi is often associated with classroom math lessons and delicious pies, it also plays a critical role in space exploration. At Sierra Space, where we’re building the future of commercial space travel, space stations, and autonomous spacecraft, Pi is more than just a number—it’s essential to Gui…