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Venus, the second planet from the Sun, is the hottest world in our solar system. Its scorching surface—averaging around 480 °C (896 °F)—is maintained by a dense, carbon‑dioxide‑rich atmosphere that is roughly 100 times heavier than Earth’s.
Unlike Earth, which experiences dramatic temperature swings due to its 23‑degree axial tilt, Venus’ axis is tilted by only about 3 degrees. This near‑zero tilt, coupled with an exceptionally thick atmosphere, creates a near‑uniform temperature that is almost the same on the day side, night side, equator, and poles.
The thick CO₂ layer traps solar heat in a runaway greenhouse effect, preventing the planet’s surface from cooling even when it faces away from the Sun. As a result, the entire surface remains a molten, inhospitable environment.
