Neptune became the farthest planet from the Sun when Pluto was demoted to dwarf planet. For now, Neptune holds this prestigious place in the Solar System. Another honor was awarded Neptune when scientists found that even though Neptune is the smallest gas planet, its density is 18% higher than Uranus. In spite of its size, Neptune is the densest of all the gas planets. Scientists believe that the force of gravity on Neptune is about the same as Earth. If you could walk on Neptune you would feel the same as you do any day on Earth. If you like hurricane winds you would love being on Neptune. Winds have reached 1,300 miles per hour! How does a frozen planet have winds that are that fast? Scientists believe that the cold temperatures and the flow of fluid gases creates a friction-less atmosphere where wind speeds can move so quickly. This great dark spot on Neptune is believed to be a mega storm system. Another cool fact about Neptune is that if a human were able to visit the planet we would "flash freeze" in 1 second! Neptune dips to -221 degrees Fahrenheit during the coldest periods. Neptune has 5 rings which are really hard to see and scientists don't really know what they are made of. The rings are possibly made of dust and icy particles certainly, but they are dark and don't reflect much light, maybe due to organic material in the rings? Scientists are only guessing. Neptune has been visited once and it was a quick fly by when Voyager 2 flew over Neptune's poles in 1989. Why don't we visit Neptune more often? Well, Neptune is way out there, the farthest planet in our Solar System and it may take lots of money to get a spacecraft that far. But NASA has plans to visit Neptune again between 2020 and 2030. This time an orbiter would be sent out to gather information on planet conditions as it orbits the planet and stays awhile. Oh the suspense! I hope I can hold out until 2030!
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Mrs. TaylorI love science! Everything about the world is interesting and never boring. I love to study plants, animals, insects, and people. My favorite subjects are my students who are the most unique organisms on the planet! Categories |