Uranus

   Uranus, the seventh planet from the Sun, has its spin axis almost in the plane of its orbit about the Sun. This produces unusual seasons and also causes unique magnetic and electric field structures. Uranus has a faint ring system and known moons.

Visit another planet: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Dwarf Planets
The plain aquamarine face of Uranus confirms the fact that Uranus is covered with <a href="/uranus/atmosphere/U_clouds_overview.html">clouds</a>. The sameness of the planet's appearance shows that the planet's atmosphere is mostly <a href="/uranus/atmosphere/U_atm_compo_overview.html">composed</a> of one thing, methane. The planet appears to be blue-green because the <a href="/physical_science/chemistry/methane.html">methane</a> gas of the atmosphere traps red light and does not allow that color to escape. This image was taken by <a href="/space_missions/voyager.html">Voyager 2</a> in 1986.<p><small><em>Image courtesy of NASA</em></small></p>

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The Fall 2010 issue of The Earth Scientist, sponsored by MII/SME, focuses on rocks and minerals. Check out the other publications in our online store, as well as classroom materials.

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