The Solar System

 The Solar System is made up of the Sun and all the objects that orbit it, including eight planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. The four inner planets—Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars—are rocky, while the outer planets—Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—are much larger and mostly made of gas or ice. Gravity from the Sun keeps everything moving in stable orbits, and scientists continue to study the solar system to learn more about space and the origins of our universe.

 The Sun is the star at the center of our solar system and the main source of light and heat for Earth. It is a massive ball of hot gases, mostly hydrogen and helium, and produces energy through nuclear fusion in its core. The Sun’s gravity holds the planets and other objects in orbit, making life on Earth possible. Scientists study the Sun to better understand space weather, climate, and how stars work.