Planetary Rotation Direction Explained

Planetary rotation refers to the direction a planet spins on its axis. Most planets in our solar system rotate in the same direction, called prograde rotation (counter-clockwise when viewed from above the Earth's North Pole).

Clockwise Rotating Planet Identification

• Prograde vs. Retrograde Rotation: While most planets exhibit prograde rotation, a few exceptions exist. Retrograde rotation is rotation in the opposite direction (clockwise).
• Venus's Rotation: Venus is unique among the major planets as it rotates in a clockwise (retrograde) direction. Its rotation is also extremely slow, taking longer to complete one spin than its orbit around the Sun.
• Other Planets' Rotation: Mars, Saturn, and Jupiter all rotate in a counter-clockwise (prograde) direction, similar to Earth.

Conclusion on Clockwise Rotation

Based on the observed rotation patterns, Venus is the planet among the options that rotates in a clockwise direction.