Discover the Icy Wonders of Neptune and Uranus: The Coldest Planets in the Solar System
The temperature of a planet decreases as its distance from the Sun increases. Earth, being at an ideal distance, enjoys a comfortable temperature suitable for human existence. However, as one moves further away from the Sun, conditions become increasingly unfavorable. Uranus and Neptune, being the most distant planets, experience extremely cold temperatures, making them the coldest in our solar system. The study of these planets poses challenges due to their vast distances from us.
Uranus
Uranus is the second farthest planet from the sun. Uranus is not oriented like the other planets because it was tipped on its side long ago in ancient history. Scientists hypothesize that the object hit Uranus with such massive force that the heat trapped inside the planet may have escaped. There is also a much more active atmosphere. NASA says the temperature of Uranus is -195°C (minus 320°F).
Neptune
NASA says Neptune is dark, cold and buffeted by supersonic winds. Neptune, which is farthest from the Sun, is also very cold. Its temperature has been measured at – minus 330°F (-200°C). Did you know that Neptune was the first planet to be discovered through mathematical calculations? Yes it was. Another amazing fact about Neptune is that it is the only planet in our solar system that cannot be seen with the naked eye. The length of a Neptune day is 16 hours. A Neptune year (one orbit around the Sun) takes about 165 Earth years.
How is temperature measured in space?
According to a report from the University of Hull. The planets that are closest to the Earth can be measured from the surface of the atmosphere with the help of probes. However, no one has ever gone too far from Neptune and Uranus, and measurements are speculated to be made by measuring their temperature from Earth. This is done by analyzing the light emitted by the planet, which tells us the composition of the atoms and molecules that make up the planet’s atmosphere. They act as a unique “fingerprint” of the planet’s temperature, giving an accurate idea of the planet’s temperature.
