Key Features of Different Types of Solar System Objects

Planets

Planets are large celestial bodies that orbit around a star. They are classified into two main groups: terrestrial planets (such as Earth and Mars) and gas giants (such as Jupiter and Saturn). Planets have a defined orbit, clear path, and sufficient mass to clear debris from their orbit.

Moons

Moons are natural satellites that orbit around planets, providing valuable information about their host planet. Moons come in various sizes and shapes, with some even having atmospheres and unique geological features like volcanoes and geysers.

Asteroids

Asteroids are rocky objects that orbit the sun. They vary in size from small boulders to hundreds of kilometers across. Asteroids are remnants from the early solar system and are mostly found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

Comets

Comets are icy bodies that originate from the outer edges of the solar system. When they come close to the sun, they develop a coma (a glowing dust and gas cloud) and a tail. Comets have highly elliptical orbits and are considered to be some of the oldest objects in the solar system.