Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system, and it has many interesting facts. From its size to its many moons, Jupiter is one of the most fascinating planets in our solar system. We’re exploring ten facts about Jupiter that you might not know. We will learn about its size, its composition, and its many moons.
We will also explore the unique features that make this planet so different from the other planets in our solar system. So, let’s get started and learn more about the amazing planet Jupiter
Plus you can learn more about what’s in our Solar System with our Top 10 Facts on the Sun and the Moon; the planets Earth, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune and the dwarf planet Pluto!
1. Jupiter is the 5th planet away from The Sun
Mercury is the innermost planet in Earthβs solar system, which means it is closest to The Sun.
2. It is the biggest planet in our Solar System
Jupiter is the biggest planet in our solar system with a radius of 69,911 km. It is more than twice as big as all the other planets combined.
3. Jupiter has rings, but they’re too faint to see very well
Saturn and Uranus aren’t the only planets with rings. Jupiter has them too but they are so faint we can’t really see them.
4. Jupiter has 80 moons
Jupiter has 80 moons that we know of, it might have even more. Fifty-seven moons have been given official names by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Another 23 moons are awaiting official names.
5. Jupiter is a Gas Giant
Jupiter is a gas giant because it is made mostly of gases hydrogen and helium.
6. A day on Jupiter is super fast
One day on Jupiter goes by in just 10 hours.
7. A year on Jupiter is the same as 11.8 Earth years
It takes Jupiter 11.8 Earth years to orbit the Sun which means Jupiter’s year is the same as 11.8 Earth years.
8. There are clouds on Jupiter
Jupiter has powerful storms and even has lightning strikes. They are sites of strong upward motion of the air, which leads to the formation of bright and dense clouds that make Jupiter appear very beautiful.
9. Jupiter is named after a Roman God
The Romans believed that gods and goddesses were in charge of everything on Earth.
Jupiter was a sky-god who Romans believed oversaw all aspects of life.
10. You can see Jupiter in the night sky
Jupiter is the third brightest object in the Solar System, after Venus and the Moon.
Chances are, if you see a really bright star high in the sky, then youβre looking at Jupiter (or maybe Venus – a star gazing app can help you know what planet you’re looking at) .
With a telescope of binoculars you might even spot small specks of light orbiting Jupiter – these are its Galilean Moons.
Let’s keep learning with our Top 10 Facts about Space and Top 10 Facts about the Solar System. Plus you can learn more about what’s in our Solar System with our Top 10 Facts on the Sun and the Moon; the planets Earth, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune and the dwarf planet Pluto.
And if you’re wondering if it’s possible to send a message into space – check out our video below for when we did just this for MISSION TRANSMISSION.
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