Terrestrial planet Terrestrial planet A terrestrial planet, telluric planet, or rocky planet is a planet that is composed primarily of silicate rocks or metals. Within the Solar System, the terrestrial planets are the inner planets closest to the Sun, i.e. Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. The terms "terrestrial planet" and "telluric planet" are derived from Latin words for Earth ("Terra" and "Tellus"), as these planets are, in terms of structure, "Earth-like". Terrestrial planets have a solid planetary surface, making them substantially different from the larger giant planets, which are composed mostly of some combination of hydrogen, helium, and water existing in various
Mission: Earth, Voyage to the Home Planet launch and adds perspective on how the mission will help scientists understand Earth, including its atmosphere, geology, ecologyand future". Nita Thurman wrote for "The Dallas Morning News", ""Mission: Earth, A Journey to the Home Planet" has dozens of color photos taken inside the shuttle and through its windows. The astronaut's descriptions are vivid." "Publishers Weekly" wrote favorably of the book, saying, "Astronaut Jones's enthusiasm for his work is contagious; it shines through the text, making for a roundly enjoyable and informative read". "Publishers Weekly" recommended the book and said it is, "[w]ell-conceived and thoughtfully executed, this book deserves a wide