Earth moves through the galaxy as part of a dynamic cosmic dance. While it orbits the Sun at 67,000 mph (107,000 km/h), the entire solar system travels around the Milky Way's center at approximately 514,000 mph (828,000 km/h). This journey takes about 225-250 million years to complete one galactic orbit, often called a "cosmic year." Simultaneously, the Milky Way itself moves through the universe, drawn by gravitational interactions with neighboring galaxies like Andromeda. Earth's motion, along with the solar system, is influenced by these massive gravitational forces, making our planet a tiny yet vital part of the ever-changing cosmic web.
Earth moves through the galaxy as part of a dynamic cosmic dance. While it orbits the Sun at 67,000 mph (107,000 km/h), the entire solar system travels around the Milky Way's center at approximately 514,000 mph (828,000 km/h). This journey takes about 225-250 million years to complete one galactic orbit, often called a "cosmic year." Simultaneously, the Milky Way itself moves through the universe, drawn by gravitational interactions with neighboring galaxies like Andromeda. Earth's motion, along with the solar system, is influenced by these massive gravitational forces, making our planet a tiny yet vital part of the ever-changing cosmic web.