earth facts

Earth is the third planet from the Sun and is the largest of the terrestrial planets. Unlike the other planets in the solar system that are named after classic deities the Earth’s name comes from the Anglo-Saxon word erda which means ground or soil. The Earth was formed approximately 4.54 billion years ago and is the only known planet to support life.

 

Planet Profile

  • Circumference at Equator: 40,030.2 km
  • Mass: 5,972,190,000,000,000 billion kg
  • Average Distance from Sun: 149,598,262 km (1 AU)
  • Known Satellites: 1
  • Notable Satellites: The Moon
  • Length of Orbit: 365.26 Earth days
  • Surface Temperature: -88 to 58°C