Hey there, Lykkers! What are the largest planets in our universe? When we talk about the largest planets, we often think about size, but there’s more to the story.

So, what defines the largest planet? Are we discussing diameter, volume, or mass? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of planetary giants, both within our solar system and beyond, to uncover the cosmic titans.

The Largest Planet in Our Solar System

In our solar system, the title of the largest planet goes to Jupiter, and it’s not even a close competition! With a diameter of 142,800 kilometers (88,846 miles), Jupiter is over 11 times the size of Earth. Its sheer volume is so massive that it could fit about 1,300 Earths inside.

Behind Jupiter, Saturn claims the second spot in size, followed by Uranus, Neptune, and Earth. Saturn, famous for its stunning rings, has a diameter of 120,536 kilometers (74,897 miles). Uranus and Neptune, often considered the “ice giants,” are similar in size but distinct in composition.

How About Mass?

If we measure planets by mass, Jupiter remains at the top. It weighs an incredible 1.8986 x 10²⁷ kilograms, dwarfing all other planets. Saturn comes second, but here’s an interesting twist: Neptune overtakes Uranus to take the third spot. Earth once again ranks fifth, with a mass of 5.9736 x 10²⁴ kilograms.

However, restricting our exploration to just our solar system is like searching for the tallest person in the world by only looking at the people in your neighborhood. Beyond our solar system lies a vast universe filled with extraordinary exoplanets, many of which make Jupiter look small.

What Are Exoplanets?

Exoplanets are planets outside our solar system, and among them, we’ve discovered some absolute giants. One of the largest known exoplanets is XO-6b, orbiting a star called XO-6 in the constellation Lynx, about 720 light-years from Earth. XO-6b has a diameter roughly twice that of Jupiter and is about 4.4 times more massive.

But even larger planets have been found. For instance, TYC 8998-760-1 b, an exoplanet that challenges our understanding of planetary formation, has a diameter three times that of Jupiter and a staggering mass 22 times greater.

Planet or Failed Star?

As we study these immense exoplanets, a fascinating debate has emerged. Are the largest of these cosmic bodies truly planets, or could they be something else? Some astronomers argue that massive exoplanets like TYC 8998-760-1 b might actually be “brown dwarfs.” These are objects too small to sustain nuclear fusion like stars but too large to be considered traditional planets.

Why Size Matters

Understanding these massive planets gives us a glimpse into the diversity of the universe. Some of these behemoths orbit their stars at breakneck speeds, while others drift far away, taking thousands of years to complete an orbit. Their size and characteristics challenge our definitions of what a planet truly is.

Exploring the Giants

From Jupiter, the king of our solar system, to distant exoplanets like XO-6b and TYC 8998-760-1 b, we’re constantly learning more about these celestial giants. They not only remind us of how vast our universe is but also inspire awe at the complexity of planetary formation.

Lykkers, the universe is full of wonders waiting to be uncovered! As we keep exploring, who knows what other massive planets or mysterious objects we might find? The journey to understanding these cosmic giants is just beginning, and each discovery brings us one step closer to unraveling the secrets of the universe.

Keep looking up, stay curious, and let’s continue exploring the great beyond together!

Scientists Found the Largest Planet in the Universe

Video by BRIGHT SIDE