The Solar System contains 8 planets orbiting the Sun. Mercury is the smallest planet and closest to the Sun. Venus has a toxic atmosphere that traps heat, making its surface hotter than Mercury's. Earth is the only known planet capable of sustaining life. Mars is a cold desert world about half the size of Earth. Jupiter is the largest planet and resembles a star, with massive storms like the Great Red Spot in its atmosphere. Saturn is notable for its extensive ring system composed of ice and rock. Uranus has a unique rotation on its side and blue color due to methane in its atmosphere. Neptune is the farthest and coldest gas giant, taking over 160 years to orbit the Sun.