Comets, asteroids, and meteoroids are small space objects found in our solar system. Even though they are all made of rock or ice and are much smaller than planets, they are very different in how they look, move, and behave.
What are they? Asteroids are rocky, airless bodies that orbit the Sun. Most are found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
What are they? Comets are icy bodies that orbit the Sun. When they get close to the Sun, the heat makes the ice turn into gas, creating a bright tail.
What are they? Meteoroids are small pieces of rock or metal in space, often broken off from asteroids or comets.
| Feature | Asteroids | Comets | Meteoroids |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | Rock and metal | Ice, dust, and rock | Rock or metal |
| Orbit | Mostly between Mars and Jupiter | Far, elliptical orbits | Random paths, may hit Earth |
| Tail | No | Yes, when near Sun | No (unless becomes a meteor) |
| Size | Few m to 1000 km | Few km | Tiny specks to 1 m |
Asteroids are rocky and orbit the Sun. Comets are icy and grow tails near the Sun. Meteoroids are tiny space rocks that can become shooting stars. Together, they help scientists learn about space, Earth's past, and how to stay safe in the future.
