Planets
For an astronomical body to be classed as a planet it much adhere to the following criterion: it must be in orbit around the Sun, it must be massive enough to reach hydrostatic equilibrium and form a rounded shape and lastly it must have cleared the neighbouring region around its orbit of other large bodies. Our Solar System has five dwarf planets and seven planets. In order of increasing distance from the Sun the planets are: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Earth, Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus, some, but not all, of which have moons.
The 10 'impossible' planets breaking the laws of the Universe
With sapphire waterfalls, lava rain and orbits around dead stars, these distant worlds push the limits of what’s possible
Astronomers have spotted a solar system being born for the first time
This discovery marks the earliest building blocks of planets we've ever seen taking shape around a star
The mystery of lightning may finally be solved
Intense bursts of radiation – usually spotted during explosions in space – may be caused by two charged pathways joining
null
undefined
Once-in-a-generation planet parade tonight: How to see the rare 7-planet alignment
A rare occurrence, the planet parade is an event any astronomy fan should try to catch.
Groundbreaking study could reveal secrets of how planets are born
The discovery could reveal in greater detail where another planet like Earth is forming.
Jupiter in opposition 2023: How to see the gas giant at its biggest and brightest tonight
Astronomer Pete Lawrence shares expert tips and advice on how to spot Jupiter in opposition this November.
Neptune in opposition tonight: How to see the elusive blue planet at its brightest
As the big blue planet comes into opposition, you’ll need to know where to look. Here's how to maximise your chances.
Could an asteroid impact ever change Earth’s orbit?
The impact an asteroid could have on Earth depends on many things including velocity, angle and geology.
Saturn in opposition: How to see the planet’s spectacular rings tonight
Here's how and when to see the ringed planet Saturn at its brightest when it reaches opposition this bank holiday weekend.
Ultimate guide to Mars | Interesting facts, figures and fun questions about the Red Planet
Join us on a journey to the fourth planet from the Sun with amazing facts, incredible images and vital information about Mars.
What is the closest planet to Earth, really?
There has recently been some confusion over which of the planets of the Solar System is closest to Earth.
Will planet Nibiru crash into Earth? A scientist explains
Nibiru (also known as Planet Nine or Planet X) is prophesied to collide with our planet and destroy all of humanity, but is its existence pseudoscience or is there any proof?
How do meteorites from Mars end up on Earth?
There are 60,000 recorded meteorites on Earth.
What would the sky look like if Earth revolved around a star in the centre of a globular cluster, like Messier 15?
A globular cluster is a stable, tightly bound collection of thousands, if not millions of stars.
Astrology’s biggest 2023 claim debunked: Saturn isn’t moving into Pisces. It’s not even close
The news is awash with news that Saturn is moving into Pisces, after spending two-and-a-half years in the constellation Aquarius.
Venus and Jupiter conjunction 2023: How to see the planets meet in the night sky tonight
As two of the brightest objects in the evening sky, you won't need a telescope to see this planetary conjunction.
What is a binary planet system?
If the Moon were bigger, at what point would it be deemed a planet and therefore the Earth and Moon a ‘binary planet’ system?
Instant Genius Podcast | Jupiter in opposition, with Dr Jonathon Nichols
Jupiter will soon make its closest approach to Earth in 59 years. We spoke to Dr Jonathan Nichols about why this is such a big event.
Saturn’s iconic rings and tilt may have been formed by the destruction of an ancient moon
Around 160 million years ago, the unstable orbit and subsequent shattering apart of a moon named Chrysalis may have caused Saturn to tilt and created its signature icey rings.
Scientists make nanodiamonds out of plastic bottles
Researchers recreate extreme conditions, as found on the planets at the edge of our Solar System, to make it rain diamonds.
The Sun: Everything you need to know
The Sun is at the heart of our Solar System, and accounts for over 99 per cent of the total mass.
Dancing planets: How can I see Venus, Saturn and Mars this week?
Take advantage of the clear skies and look out for the three planets as they come into view.
Why doesn’t Earth have rings?
Although Earth doesn't have a ring system today, it may have had one in the past.
20 of the most amazing moons in the Solar System
There are 174 known moons out there, spinning around the celestial bodies of our Solar System, so we’ve decided to pick out our favourites.