Natural Satellite

A natural satellite is a celestial body that orbits a planet or a similar body. Natural satellites are also known as moons. They are held in orbit by the gravitational attraction of the planet they orbit.

Characteristics of Natural Satellites

• Orbit: Natural satellites orbit around their parent planet in a generally elliptical or circular path.
• Size: Natural satellites can vary in size from a few kilometers to several thousand kilometers in diameter.
• Formation: They are formed either by the accumulation of material around a planet or by being captured by the planet's gravitational pull.
• Surface: Natural satellites may have a variety of surface features including craters, mountains, and valleys.
• Atmosphere: Some natural satellites have a thin atmosphere, while others have no atmosphere at all.

Notable Natural Satellites

Our solar system contains several notable natural satellites, including:

1. The Moon: Earth's natural satellite, with a diameter of about 3,474 kilometers, making it the fifth largest natural satellite in the solar system.
2. Phobos and Deimos: The two natural satellites of Mars, with irregular shapes and relatively small sizes.
3. Europa: One of Jupiter's natural satellites, known for its smooth, icy surface and the potential for a subsurface ocean.
4. Titan: Saturn's largest natural satellite, with a dense atmosphere and the presence of liquid hydrocarbons on its surface.

Study Guide

To understand the concept of natural satellites, it's important to review the following key points:

1. Define the term "natural satellite" and differentiate it from artificial satellites.
2. Explain how natural satellites are held in orbit around their parent planets.
3. Describe the characteristics of natural satellites, including their size, orbit, and surface features.
4. Identify and compare notable natural satellites within our solar system.
5. Discuss the potential scientific significance of studying natural satellites, including their possible role in understanding planetary formation and the search for extraterrestrial life.