Abstract :
Classical variables like RR Lyrae, classical and Type-II Cepheids and Mira variables all follow period-luminosity relations that make them interesting as distance indicators. Especially the RR Lyrae and δ Cepheids are crucial in establishing the distance scale in the Universe, and all classes of variables can be used as tracers of galactic structure. I will present an overview of recent period-luminosity relations and review the work that has been done using the Gaia DR1 data so far, and discuss possibilities for the future.

Keywords : Cepheids; stars: variables: other; stars: distances; distance scale; stars: AGB and post-AGB; Magellanic Clouds; Astrophysics - Solar and Stellar Astrophysics
DOI : 10.1017/S1743921317005506 
Bibcode : 2018IAUS..330..287G