The solar system: the Sun

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The Solar System: The Sun

The Sun (Sol) is the star that the planets and comets in our solar system orbit around. The Sun is spectacular when viewed using a solar filter or dedicated solar scope for sunspots and prominences.

Sun Facts
Mass (kg)	1.989e+30
Equatorial radius (km)	695,000
Mean density (gm/cm³)	1.410
Rotational period (days)	25-36*
Equatorial escape velocity (km/sec)	618.02
Visual geometric albedo	0.3
Magnitude (Vo)	-26.8
Mean surface temperature	6,000°C
Composition	Hydrogen=92% Helium=8%

For a list of solar eclipses, see Upcoming solar eclipses. For a list of planetary transits across the Sun, see Transits of Venus & Mercury.

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