The solar system is a collection of celestial bodies that orbit around the Sun, which is a star at the center. It includes eight major planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. These planets vary in size, composition, and distance from the Sun. In addition to the planets, the solar system contains dwarf planets like Pluto, numerous moons, and countless smaller objects such as asteroids and comets. The gravitational pull of the Sun keeps these bodies in orbit, creating a dynamic and diverse environment in space.