Planet A planet is a celestial body that orbits around a star , is round in shape due to its own gravity , and has cleared its neighboring region of other debris. There are eight recognized planets in our solar system , including Mercury , Venus , Earth , Mars , Jupiter , Saturn , Uranus , and Neptune . In addition, there are dwarf planets such as Pluto , Ceres , Haumea , Makemake , and Eris .
Characteristics of Planets: Orbits around a star Round shape due to gravity Cleared its neighboring region of other debris Types of Planets: Terrestrial Planets : Mercury , Venus , Earth , Mars Gas Giants : Jupiter , Saturn , Uranus , Neptune Dwarf Planets : Pluto , Ceres , Haumea , Makemake , Eris Study Guide Questions: What is a planet? List the eight recognized planets in our solar system . What are the characteristics of planets? Name the types of planets and provide examples of each. .