Solar System: Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors

Introduction

Continuing our journey in the solar system, we will take a look at the outer planets of our solar system and their characteristics. As astronauts, it is important to know about the planets in our solar system. Who knows? One day you may be selected for a space mission to one of them!

Essential Questions

What other bodies are found in our solar system?
What are characteristics of different rocks in our solar system?

Key Terms

Asteroid - a small rocky body orbiting the Sun usually found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter

Comet - a celestial body that moves around the Sun in a very elliptical orbit and forms a vapor trail when it nears the Sun

Meteor - an asteroid or other object that burns and vaporizes upon entry into the Earth's atmosphere

Meteorite - a meteor that lands on the Earth, usually made of stone or iron

Solar wind - a continuous stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun

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