Across
- 3. A rocky object, typically smaller than a planet, that orbits the sun. Asteroids are remnants from the early solar system and are found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, as well as in other regions.
- 6. A planet that orbits a star outside our solar system. Exoplanets are discovered through telescopic observations, and scientists study them to understand the diversity of planetary systems beyond our own.
- 8. A natural satellite that orbits a planet. Moons come in different sizes and shapes and play a crucial role in influencing tides and stabilizing the rotation of planets. Earth's moon is an example of a natural satellite.
- 11. Object Celestial objects located outside our Milky Way galaxy. Extragalactic objects include galaxies, quasars, and other phenomena that provide insights into the broader structure and evolution of the universe.
- 13. System A star system that includes a central star (the sun) and the celestial bodies that orbit it, such as planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. Our solar system is part of the Milky Way galaxy in the vast cosmos.
- 14. Planet A celestial body that orbits the sun and has characteristics of both planets and asteroids. Dwarf planets, such as Pluto, are recognized by the International Astronomical Union but have not cleared their orbits.
Down
- 1. A cloud of gas and dust in space, often illuminated by nearby stars, that serves as the birthplace of new stars. Nebulas can have various shapes and colors, creating beautiful and intricate cosmic landscapes.
- 2. Belt Object A small body, such as a dwarf planet or comet, located in the Kuiper Belt—a region beyond Neptune that contains icy objects. Pluto and other Trans-Neptunian Objects are examples of Kuiper Belt objects.
- 4. Giant A massive planet primarily composed of gases, such as hydrogen and helium. Gas giants, like Jupiter and Saturn, lack solid surfaces and have thick atmospheres, making them distinct from terrestrial planets.
- 5. A small celestial object composed of ice, dust, and gas that orbits the sun in an elongated path. When a comet approaches the sun, it forms a bright coma and tail due to the sublimation of its icy components.
- 7. A highly magnetized, rotating neutron star that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation. Pulsars are remnants of massive stars and are known for their precise and regular pulsating signals detected on Earth.
- 8. A small rock or particle in space that ranges in size from a grain of sand to a few meters. When a meteoroid enters Earth's atmosphere and burns up, it creates a streak of light known as a meteor or shooting star.
- 9. Hole A region of spacetime with gravitational forces so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it. Black holes are formed by the collapse of massive stars and have a profound impact on the surrounding space.
- 10. A massive, luminous sphere of gas, primarily hydrogen and helium, that generates light and heat through nuclear fusion. Stars are the primary sources of energy in the universe and come in various sizes and colors.
- 12. A vast system of stars, stellar remnants, interstellar gas, and dark matter bound together by gravity. Galaxies come in various shapes and sizes, and the Milky Way is the galaxy that includes our solar system.