Interactive planet view
Explore Earth in 3D
Earth is the third planet from the Sun and the only world currently known to support life. Liquid surface water covers most of the planet, and the Moon is its natural satellite.
- Mean radius: about 6,371 km
- Year: about 365.25 days
- Moon: about 384,400 km away
Use the 3D view to focus on Earth, select the Moon, and compare their available radius and orbit fields.
Model note: This is an artistic educational visualization. Sizes, distances, and time are compressed for visibility; it is not a live ephemeris or a professional astronomy tool.
About Earth
Earth is the third planet from the Sun, at an average distance of about 150 million km (1 AU), and the only world known to support life. About 71% of its surface is covered by liquid water, and a nitrogen–oxygen atmosphere shields life and keeps temperatures moderate. Earth is the densest planet in the Solar System and the largest of the four rocky planets.
Earth’s axis is tilted about 23.4°, which gives us seasons. Its single natural satellite, the Moon, is about a quarter of Earth’s diameter and orbits at an average of 384,400 km. The Moon’s gravity raises ocean tides and helps keep Earth’s tilt stable over long periods.
Earth: frequently asked questions
Why does Earth have seasons?
Because Earth’s axis is tilted about 23.4°. As Earth orbits the Sun, each hemisphere takes turns leaning toward the Sun (summer) and away from it (winter). Changes in distance from the Sun are too small to cause seasons.
How far away is the Moon?
About 384,400 km on average. Light covers that distance in roughly 1.3 seconds.
How long does Earth take to orbit the Sun?
About 365.25 days. The extra quarter day is why calendars add a leap day every four years.
Sources: NASA Science — Earth · NASA Planetary Fact Sheet.
Tip: click any visible object for its radius and orbital data. Press G to show or hide this guide.