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!
What Cosmic Object Are You?
Take this fun personality quiz and discover whether you’re a comet, a nebula, the Moon, or something even more cosmic.
Planetary Oppositions 2026: Next Up Is Neptune
The best time to view most planets is at the astronomical opposition. Find out what it means and when to see the upcoming oppositions.
Bright “Star” Next to Moon: What Planet Is Near the Moon Tonight?
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!
Fun Facts About Mercury: What Mercury Is Like and Its One-of-a-Kind Characteristics
All you need to know about Mercury: fun facts, color and size, temperature swings, day length, and practical tips to spot it in 2026.
Jupiter Facts for Skywatchers: What Does Jupiter Look Like From Space and From Earth?
Get a clear picture of Jupiter: how it looks to the naked eye and with optics, when to see it in the sky in 2026, what it’s composed of, and what makes this gas giant special.
Neptune: The Farthest & Windiest Planet in the Solar System
How big is Neptune? What is Neptune made of? Why is Neptune blue? Read our article and learn curious facts about the outermost planet in the Solar System.
Explore the Red Planet: All the Must-Know Facts About Mars
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.
Where Is Saturn Tonight? How to Find Saturn and See Its Rings
Where is Saturn tonight in the sky, and what does Saturn look like from Earth? Learn when Saturn is visible, how to find it, and what you can see with your eyes, binoculars, or a telescope.
Venus Facts: Explore the Brightest Planet in The Sky
Meet Venus, the Earth’s “evil sister!” Get to know the planet and learn about upcoming Venus events in this article.
Planet Uranus: The Coldest Planet
What is Uranus? Learn facts about its size, rings, moons, rotation, and cold atmosphere. Also, explore Uranus’ upcoming events!