What is the Planet Closest to Earth in Size?

People frequently ask, “Which planet is closest to Earth in size?” Unfortunately, the answer lies within how distance is measured. Kepler-452b, located 1,194 light years from Earth, is approximately 60% larger than Earth and orbits within its host star’s habitable zone, giving researchers reason to believe there’s an excellent chance it could support life. Venus…

The Closest Planets to Earth

Planets that orbit stars similar to our own could host liquid water, making its discovery even more significant and helping scientists understand its composition in terms of rocks and materials. Most people believe Venus to be our nearest planet, but in actuality Mercury could actually be closer due to how astronomers calculate distance. Their position…

Life on Earth Would Go Terribly Awry Without Clouds

Clouds play an essential part in Earth’s climate by reflecting some of the sunlight back into space and keeping Earth cooler than otherwise. From sky-filling stratus to popcorn-puff cumulus and wispy cirrus all the way through to anvil-shaped nimbus clouds are essential in keeping its temperatures at an acceptable level. Clouds form in areas with…

What Are the Closest Planets to Earth in Order?

Most people tend to assume Venus is closest, according to recent research; however, according to an alternative viewpoint Mercury could actually be closer. Live Science reports that most people use an inaccurate method for calculating distance between planets. Averages taken into account, while their distance can change rapidly as planets orbit each other – giving…

The Closest Planet to Earth in Miles

Venus is our closest solar system neighbor; yet how close exactly is she to Earth? Science popularizers may have created the false impression that Venus is always Earth’s closest neighbor through their carelessness, misinterpretation or groupthink. To truly grasp reality we need to examine average distances between planets as they orbit each other over time….

Are There Planets Similar to Earth That Could Host Life?

An ideal planet for hosting life must meet certain conditions; specifically, its star’s habitable zone must allow life to thrive there. It should have a surface where liquid water can gather, as well as an atmosphere which protects its inhabitants from harmful solar radiation. Are there planets similar to our Earth in the universe? Size…