Jupiter
Jupiter[edit | edit source]
Jupiter is the largest planet in the Solar System and the fifth planet from the Sun. It is a gas giant with a mass more than two and a half times that of all the other planets in the Solar System combined. Jupiter is primarily composed of hydrogen with a quarter of its mass being helium, though it may also have a rocky core of heavier elements.
Physical Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Jupiter has a diameter of about 142,984 km (88,846 mi) at its equator. It is known for its prominent bands of clouds and the Great Red Spot, a giant storm that has been observed for over 350 years. The planet's atmosphere is divided into several bands at different latitudes, resulting in turbulence and storms along their interacting boundaries.
Atmosphere[edit | edit source]
The atmosphere of Jupiter is composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, with trace amounts of methane, water vapor, ammonia, and other compounds. The upper atmosphere is characterized by cloud layers of ammonia crystals, while deeper layers contain clouds of ammonium hydrosulfide and water.
Magnetosphere[edit | edit source]
Jupiter has a powerful magnetosphere that extends up to 7 million kilometers in the direction of the Sun and almost to the orbit of Saturn in the opposite direction. This magnetosphere is the largest structure in the Solar System and is responsible for intense radiation belts and auroras at the planet's poles.
Moons[edit | edit source]
Jupiter has at least 79 known moons, including the four large Galilean moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. These moons are some of the largest objects in the Solar System outside the Sun and the eight planets.
Galilean Moons[edit | edit source]
- Io is the most geologically active body in the Solar System, with hundreds of volcanoes and extensive lava flows.
- Europa is believed to have a subsurface ocean beneath its icy crust, making it a prime candidate for the search for extraterrestrial life.
- Ganymede is the largest moon in the Solar System and is larger than the planet Mercury.
- Callisto is heavily cratered and ancient, with a surface that has not been significantly altered by geological processes.
Exploration[edit | edit source]
Jupiter has been visited by several spacecraft, including Pioneer 10, Pioneer 11, Voyager 1, Voyager 2, Galileo, and the Juno mission, which is currently studying the planet's atmosphere and magnetic field.
Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]
Jupiter has been known since ancient times and is named after the Roman king of the gods. It has been observed by many cultures and has played a significant role in mythology and astrology.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD