Mercury

Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun and the smallest in our solar system. It has a rocky surface covered in craters, similar to the Moon. Mercury experiences extreme temperature changes, scorching hot during the day and freezing cold at night, due to its thin atmosphere. It has a very short orbit, completing one revolution around the Sun in about 88 Earth days. Mercury is known for its swift movement across the sky and was named after the Roman messenger god, symbolizing speed. Explorations like NASA’s MESSENGER mission have provided valuable insights into its composition and history.