Rocky · 2nd planet from the Sun
Venus
The hottest planet in the solar system, due to a runaway greenhouse effect trapping heat under a thick carbon dioxide atmosphere.
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Size & Distance
Diameter12,104 km
Vs. Earth's diameter0.95×
Distance from Sun0.72 AU (108.2M km)
Distance from Earth (range)42M – 257M km
Mass & Gravity
Mass vs. Earth0.815×
Surface gravity vs. Earth0.907×
Known moons0
Time
Length of day243 Earth days (retrograde)
Length of year225 days
Orbit
Orbital period225 days
Planet typeRocky
Interesting facts about Venus
- Venus rotates backwards (retrograde) compared to most planets, and so slowly that its day is longer than its year.
- Surface temperatures reach roughly 465°C (870°F) — hot enough to melt lead.
- Venus is the brightest natural object in the night sky after the Moon, often called the 'morning star' or 'evening star.'
FAQ
How far is Venus from the Sun?
An average of about 0.72 AU (108.2 million km).
How big is Venus?
12,104 km in diameter — about 0.95× the diameter of Earth.
How much would I weigh on Venus?
Multiply your Earth weight by 0.907 — Venus's surface gravity is 0.907× Earth's. Try our weight calculator for an exact number.
Other planets
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