However, Neptune is a spheroid shape, meaning that it bulges around its equator, making the the radius to the pole slightly smaller. Neptune is the fourth largest planet in the solar system, with a radius 15,599.4 miles (24,622 kilometres) - the distance between its core and the surface. Astronomers are still trying to figure out at what point a planet is so large that it may pick up a lot of gas in the area, making it difficult or impossible for life to exist. Like Earth, Neptune has a rocky core, but it has a much thicker atmosphere that prohibits the existence of life as we know it. Specifically, astronomers are interested in learning about the habitability of worlds that are bigger than Earth. While Neptune is of interest because it is in our own solar system, astronomers are also interested in learning more about the planet to assist with exoplanet studies. Today, there are still many mysteries about the cool, blue planet, such as why its winds are so speedy and why its magnetic field is offset. Only one mission has flown by Neptune - Voyager 2 in 1989.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |