The Planets

Overview of Planets

A planet is a large celestial body that revolves around a star and is spherical in shape. Planets do not have their own light; they shine by reflecting sunlight.

There are eight planets in our Solar System. In order of distance from the Sun, they are:

1. Mercury (Budha)
2. Venus (Śhukra)
3. Earth (Pṛithvī)
4. Mars (Mangala)
5. Jupiter (Bṛihaspati)
6. Saturn (Śhani)
7. Uranus
8. Neptune

Inner Planets

The first four planets are called the Inner Planets. They are smaller, made of rock, and have solid surfaces.

1. Mercury: Nearest to the Sun. It is very hot during the day and very cold at night.
2. Venus: The brightest planet in our sky. Often called the Morning Star or Evening Star. It is the hottest planet because its thick atmosphere traps heat.
3. Earth: The Blue Planet. It is the only planet known to support life due to the presence of liquid water and a suitable atmosphere.
4. Mars: The Red Planet. It appears red due to iron oxide (rust) in its soil. It has two moons.

Outer Planets

The last four planets are called the Outer Planets or Gas Giants. They are very large and made mostly of gases. They all have rings (though Saturn’s are most visible).

5. Jupiter: The largest planet in the Solar System.
6. Saturn: Famous for its beautiful rings made of ice and dust.
7. Uranus: Looks blue-green.
8. Neptune: The farthest planet from the Sun, very cold and windy.