Neptune, the eighth planet from the sun, is a fascinating planet with many amazing facts. If you’re curious about this blue giant planet, here are some Neptune fun facts for kids:
1. Neptune is the fourth largest planet in the solar system, measuring 17 times the mass of Earth.
2. Neptune is named after the Roman god of the sea. Its deep blue color and turbulent atmosphere make it a fitting tribute to the god of the sea.
3. Neptune is covered in thick layers of gas and clouds. It’s mostly made up of hydrogen, helium, and methane gas.
4. Neptune is the windiest planet in our solar system, with winds reaching speeds up to 1,600 kilometers per hour.
5. Neptune has 14 known moons, the most famous of which is Triton.
6. Triton, Neptune’s largest moon, orbits the planet in the opposite direction of Neptune’s rotation, making it unique among the moons in our solar system.
7. Neptune has five rings, which were first discovered in 1984 by the Voyager 2 spacecraft.
8. The temperature on Neptune is incredibly cold, reaching as low as -218°C (-360°F).
9. Neptune’s year, or the time it takes to orbit the sun, is about 165 Earth years. So, if you were born on Neptune, you would have to wait 165 years to celebrate your first birthday.
10. Neptune has only been visited by one spacecraft, Voyager 2, which flew past the planet in 1989.
