A celestial body in space that orbits around a larger body is called a natural satellite.


A natural satellite is a celestial body that orbits around a larger body in space. These larger bodies are typically planets, although they can also be dwarf planets, asteroids, or even other natural satellites. Natural satellites are commonly referred to as moons when they orbit around planets.


- Natural satellites are held in orbit by the gravitational force between the larger body they orbit and themselves.
- They follow elliptical or nearly circular paths around the larger body.
- They do not emit light of their own but instead reflect the light of the Sun.
- Natural satellites can have various sizes and compositions.
- They can have different shapes, ranging from spherical to irregular.
- Some natural satellites may have an atmosphere, although it is typically very thin compared to the atmospheres of larger bodies like planets.


1. Earth's Moon: The Moon is Earth's natural satellite. It orbits around the Earth and is the fifth-largest moon in the Solar System.
2. Phobos and Deimos: These are the natural satellites of Mars.
3. Europa, Ganymede, Callisto, and Io: These are some of the natural satellites of Jupiter.


- Natural satellites provide valuable scientific information about the larger bodies they orbit. For example, studying the Moon helps us understand the formation and evolution of the Earth.
- Some natural satellites, like Jupiter's moon Europa, are believed to have subsurface oceans that could potentially harbor life.
- Natural satellites also play a role in various cultural and mythological beliefs, often being associated with deities or supernatural phenomena.

Overall, natural satellites are fascinating objects in the Solar System that contribute to our understanding of the universe and have captivated human curiosity for centuries.