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The Earth and Beyond

The Solar System - General.

Our solar system is the name given to the Sun
and the planets which orbit it (see picture).

The Sun is a star.
There are eight planets (plus Pluto)
and many asteroids which orbit the Sun.
Some of the planets have moons.

The way in which all the planets and moons move
is governed by the force of gravity.

There are a very large number of solar systems in the Universe.
Some of the planets in these other solar systems may support life.

Between the planets, stars and galaxies of the Universe
lies the vacuum of space.
A vacuum is the absence of all substance.
Space is not a perfect vacuum
but the substance which does exist is very thinly spread.

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Copyright © 2008 Dr. Colin France. All Rights Reserved.