Following the discovery of Pluto, the title was stripped from Neptune. Pluto was then discovered in 1930 and at that time, was classified as the most distant planet from the sun. After the discovery in 1846, Neptune was the furthest planet from the sun. One could argue that this has not always been the case. Neptune is the furthest planet from the sun. The rings are named after astronomers associated with discoveries about the planet. Neptune has five rings (Adam, Galle, Arago, Lassell, and Le Verrier) that are very difficult to see compared to the bold and bright rings of Saturn. Planetary Rings Of Neptune Are Difficult To See Hydrocarbon snowflakes formed in the atmosphere usually melt before they get to the planet’s surface. Hazes of smog formed by hydrocarbons are a dominant feature of the upper atmosphere. Its distinct blue color also helps to distinguish it from Uranus. The planets’ deep blue color is derived from icy methane particles. For comparison, the strongest winds on earth only hit at about 250 miles per hour.

Recorded wind speeds on the planet reach 1,250 miles per hour, which is comparable to the top speed of a US F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet. The atmosphere is also known to contain icy clouds and by far the fastest winds in the solar system blow here. The atmosphere on Neptune is incredibly thick and is comprised of hydrogen (74%), helium (25%), and methane (1%). Neighbouring Pluto (a dwarf planet) is much colder with temperatures of -400 degrees Fahrenheit. An unprotected human being would probably freeze in seconds if exposed to such temperatures. Temperatures at the top of clouds in Neptune are estimated to be about -366 degrees Fahrenheit. Neptune Is The Solar System's Coldest Planet Finally, a decision was made that gave both mathematicians equal recognition for Neptune’s discovery.

The finding resulted in an international dispute with two opposing sides battling in support of Adam and Le Verrier, respectively. The credit for the discovery of the planet was given to Le Verrier, a French mathematician and John Adams, an English mathematician who had both predicted the existence of a “Planet X.” In 1846, the planet was found by Johann Galle, a German astronomer. The planet was the last to be discovered as it was not visible to the naked eye. Neptune is named after the Roman god of the sea and is one of the fascinating planets in the Solar System.

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