The Oort Cloud is a theoretical cloud of icy objects that surrounds our solar system. It is believed to be the source of long-period comets, which take thousands of years to orbit the sun.
The Oort Cloud is estimated to be between 2,000 and 200,000 astronomical units (AU) away from the sun. For reference, one AU is the distance from the Earth to the sun, which is about 93 million miles.
The Oort Cloud is estimated to have a diameter of 0.8 light years, making it one of the largest structures in our solar system. It is believed to contain billions of icy objects, ranging in size from comets to dwarf planets.
Studying the Oort Cloud can provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system. It can also help us understand the potential risks of objects from the Oort Cloud colliding with Earth.
Scientists use various techniques, such as astronomical observations, computer simulations, and spacecraft missions, to study the Oort Cloud. These methods allow us to gather data and make predictions about this elusive and mysterious cloud of objects.