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Our Planets Found: Neptune

kiwithinker

Published: 20 Jul 2025 › Updated: 20 Jul 2025Our Planets Found: Neptune

Our Planets Found: Neptune

Our Planets Found: Neptune

When found:
September 23, 1846.

By who:
Johann Galle, based on predictions by Urbain Le Verrier.

Description:
Neptune is the eighth planet from the Sun, an ice giant with strong winds, a dynamic atmosphere, dark spots, and 16 known moons, appearing deep blue due to methane.

Distance from Earth:
Closest distance: approximately 2.7 billion miles.

Length of Year & Day:
Year: 59,800 Earth days (about 165 years).
Day: 16.1 hours.

Interesting fact:
Neptune has the strongest winds in the solar system, reaching speeds of over 1,200 miles per hour.

Like its Finder:
Like Urbain Le Verrier who predicted its existence through mathematical calculations without seeing it, Neptune was "discovered" on paper before being observed, showcasing the power of intellectual foresight.

NASA:Neptune

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Interested in all things space related. In particular SpaceX and their missions to the Moon and Mars.

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