Exploring Uranus: The Planet That Takes 84 Earth Years to Orbit the Sun

What is Uranus and Its Orbital Period?

Uranus, the seventh planet from the Sun in our solar system, takes an exceptionally long time to complete a single orbit around our star. Specifically, Uranus spends 84.07 Earth years in one revolution around the sun. This means that each year in Uranian time is equivalent to approximately 84 Earth years.

Understanding the Definition of a Year

It is important to note that a year is defined as the amount of time it takes for a planet to complete one full orbit around the Sun. This definition applies to all planets in our solar system. Therefore, if the question asks about the planet that takes 84 Earth years to orbit the sun, the answer is Uranus. However, the general definition of a year is unique to each planet and does not necessarily reflect the length of an Earth year.

Details about Uranus' Orbit

Uranus takes about 84 Earth years to complete a full orbit around the Sun. In terms of days, this translates to approximately 30,687 Earth days. Uranus is located at an average distance of 19.18 astronomical units (AU) from the Sun. An AU is the average distance between the Earth and the Sun, which is about 93 million miles or 150 million kilometers.

Uranus: A Peculiar Planet

Uranus' name is derived directly from a figure in Greek mythology— Ouranos, the Greek god of the sky. This planet is unique not only in its orbital period but also in its physical characteristics. It is known for its sideways rotation, which is likely the result of a large impact early in its history, and its distinctive blue color due to the presence of methane in its atmosphere.

Facts about Uranus' Orbital Speed

Uranus moves at a relatively fast pace in its orbit, traveling at an average speed of 15,290 miles per hour (24,607 kilometers per hour). This speed allows it to complete its orbit in the defined time period of 84 Earth years. Each revolution around the Sun is a journey of approximately 2.8 billion miles (4.5 billion kilometers).