Planets & Moons

There are 8 officially recognized Solar System planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Most of them, except Mercury and Venus, have their own natural satellites, commonly called “moons.” Some of the dwarf planets, like Pluto and Eris, have moons, too. Here, you’ll learn the best dates to observe planets in the sky and find everything you need to know about planets, dwarf planets, and natural satellites. When you learn enough, test your astronomy skills with our challenging quizzes!

Jupiter guide

Jupiter Facts: The Biggest Planet in the Solar System

~10 min

The bright Jupiter is known for its many moons, unstable surface, and mysterious Great Red Spot. Is there something else? Find out!

Astronomical News
Stars vs. Planets

Stars Versus Planets: What’s the Difference

~6 min

Learn 5 easy ways to tell stars from planets in the sky and find fundamental differences between these space objects.

Astronomical News
Messier 7

The Brightest Deep Sky Objects in June 2023

~7 min

This June, observe faraway star clusters and see the Moon and planets meeting deep-sky objects! Read on not to miss the beauty. 🌌

Astronomical News
Planetary Alignment 2023: Saturn, Neptune, Jupiter, Mercury & Uranus Visible Tonight

Planetary Alignment 2023: Saturn, Neptune, Jupiter, Mercury & Uranus Visible Tonight

~9 min

What is a planet alignment, and when to see the next one in June 2023? Check out this article to ensure you do not miss the moment when the planets line up in the sky.

Astronomical News
Moon near Saturn in June 2023

June 2023: What Planet is Next to the Moon?

~10 min

What is that bright dot shining near the Moon tonight? Find out about stars and planets that can be seen next to our natural satellite this month!

Astronomical News
Amazing Planet Venus

Facts About Venus: Explore the Earth's Sister Planet

~9 min

Why is Venus so hot and bright? When is the best time to observe it? Read this article to get answers to these and many other questions about this planet.

Astronomical News
3D image of Venus

Fun Facts About Venus — the Earth’s Evil Twin

How long is a day on Venus? Why is Venus hotter than Mercury? Take this quiz and test your knowledge about this mysterious planet that is both very like and very unlike the Earth.

Quizzes
Facts About Mercury

Facts About Mercury: All You Need to Know

~7 min

Explore the closest planet to the Sun! Find out how long a day on Mercury is and how many moons the planet has. Also, keep up with the upcoming Mercury events!

Astronomical News
Mars and its two moons, Phobos and Deimos

Mars: Facts About the Red Planet

~9 min

Why is Mars red? What’s the gravity on Mars? Read this article to get answers to these and many other questions and learn more about the Red Planet.

Astronomical News
Facts About Saturn

Planet Saturn: Explore Saturn's Rings, Moons, and More

~10 min

How many rings does Saturn have? Where is Saturn tonight in the sky? Find answers to these and other most common questions about Saturn in our article.

Astronomical News