Planetary body

A planetary body is any large, round object that orbits a star, such as our Sun, and is massive enough that its own gravity has pulled it into a sphere shape. These objects, which include planets, moons, and dwarf planets, are distinct from smaller space rocks because their size and gravity give them enough power to dominate their orbital neighborhood and maintain a spherical form. Understanding planetary bodies helps us map out our solar system and search for worlds beyond it that might support life.