Earth

Third planet from the Sun and the only astronomical object known to harbor life, with liquid surface water and a protective magnetosphere.

Core Principles & Analysis

• Earth is the only planet known to have active plate tectonics continuously recycling its crust.
• Its magnetic field, generated by convection in the liquid iron outer core, deflects the solar wind that would otherwise strip the atmosphere.
• Tidal friction with the Moon lengthens Earth's day by about 2 milliseconds per century.

Specifications & Metrics

• DISTANCE FROM SUN: 1.00 AU
• DIAMETER: 12,742 km
• MOONS: 1 (The Moon)
• ORBITAL PERIOD: 365.25 days