What is the closest planet from the sun
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Closest Planet to the Sun: Mercury
Introduction to the Inner Planets
The inner planets of our solar system, also known as the terrestrial planets, include Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. These planets are characterized by their rocky surfaces and are located closest to the Sun1 2. Among these, Mercury holds the distinction of being the closest planet to the Sun.
Mercury: The Nearest Planet to the Sun
Mercury is the smallest and innermost planet in the solar system, orbiting the Sun at an average distance of approximately 0.39 astronomical units (AU), where 1 AU is the mean distance between Earth and the Sun1 2. This proximity to the Sun results in extreme temperature variations on Mercury's surface, ranging from very high temperatures during the day to extremely low temperatures at night.
Characteristics of Mercury
Mercury's close orbit around the Sun means it completes one revolution in just about 88 Earth days. Despite its small size, Mercury has a significant iron core, which contributes to its high density. The planet's surface is heavily cratered, similar to the Moon, indicating a long history of impacts1 2.
Conclusion
In summary, Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun, orbiting at a distance of 0.39 AU. Its proximity to the Sun and its unique characteristics make it a fascinating subject of study within the inner solar system.
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Astronomy: Earth-like planet around Sun's neighbour
Proxima b, a small planet with a minimum mass of 1.3 Earth masses, orbits Proxima Centauri, the nearest star to our Sun, at a distance where liquid water and potentially life could exist on its surface.
Rigorous JournalA terrestrial planet candidate in a temperate orbit around Proxima Centauri
A small planet with a minimum mass of 1.3 Earth masses orbiting Proxima Centauri has been discovered, with its equilibrium temperature within the range where water could be liquid on its surface.
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Proxima c's near-infrared counterpart, if confirmed, could be the first imaging of a planet discovered from radial velocities.
A Sedna-like body with a perihelion of 80 astronomical units
2012 VP113 confirms that Sedna and 2012 VP113 are not isolated objects, and may be members of the inner Oort cloud, which could outnumber other dynamically stable populations in the Solar System.
Highly CitedPlanetary system around the nearby M dwarf GJ 357 including a transiting, hot, Earth-sized planet optimal for atmospheric characterization
GJ 357 b is a transiting, hot, Earth-sized planet near GJ 357, ideal for atmospheric characterization with the upcoming JWST and ground-based ELTs.
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