The Jovian Planets

The four outer planets are called "the Jovian planets." These planets are large and gaseous. All four of these planets are a significant distance from the Sun. Similarities on these planets include high winds, storms, and many moons. In addition, all of the Jovian planets have rings, though this was not discovered until the 1970s. In this interactivity, click on each of the spinning dots to learn more about each of the Jovian planets. Click the player to begin.

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Moons of Jupiter

In 1610, Galileo Galilei discovered four of the 67 moons of Jupiter. These four moons can be viewed from Earth with the aid of a telescope, and they were the first orbiting celestial bodies to be discovered that were not orbiting the Sun or the Earth. These moons are very interesting and varied celestial bodies. One moon is very large, one moon has extensive geologic activity, and one moon is covered in ice from liquid water. Read below and observe the four images to find out more about four moons of Jupiter.

Callisto is the third largest moon in the Solar System. It has a heavily-cratered surface with a thin atmosphere of carbon dioxide and oxygen.

Ganymede is the largest moon in the Solar System. It is larger than the planet Mercury. There is still evidence of geologic activity on Ganymede.

Lo is the most geologically active body in the Solar System. Its volcanic eruptions can reach great heights, and it has mountains highr than Mount Everest.

Europa is composed of ice and water. It is slightly smaller than Earth's Moon. The surface of Europa is covered with streaks and cracks.

 

 

Jovian Planets Review

Now that you have studies the Jovian planets, check your knowledge in this non-graded activity. Read the directions associated with each question and select the correct answer. Then, click SUBMIT to check your response. Click the player to get started.