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Planets are celestial bodies that orbit stars, primarily distinguished by their size, composition, and position within a solar system. Unlike stars, planets do not generate their own light but reflect the light of their parent star. They can be rocky, like Earth and Mars, or gaseous, like Jupiter and Saturn. Planets may also have atmospheres, moons, and rings, depending on their formation and environment. In our solar system, eight major planets revolve around the Sun, each with unique characteristics. Beyond our system, thousands of exoplanets have been discovered orbiting distant stars, expanding our understanding of planetary diversity. Planets play a key role in astronomy, offering insights into the formation of solar systems and the potential for life beyond Earth. Their study continues to reveal the vast complexity of the universe.
