Planet Word Search Free Printable
A planet word search is a simple way to help kids build space vocabulary while keeping them engaged with a quiet, screen-free activity.
Whether you’re learning about the solar system at home or in the classroom, this printable puzzle offers a fun way to reinforce what they’ve learned.
With 17 themed words to find, it’s a great fit for early finishers, science centers, or just a relaxed afternoon of learning.
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Planet Word Search Printable
This free planet word search puzzle is a great way to reinforce space-themed vocabulary while giving kids a fun challenge.
It includes two pages: one with the puzzle and one with the answer key for quick checking.
Words are hidden in all directions—horizontally, vertically, diagonally, and even backward—making it a good fit for upper elementary students or anyone who enjoys a slightly trickier puzzle.
Pro tip: Use a highlighter or circle the letters instead of crossing them out. Some letters are shared between multiple words, so this keeps the puzzle readable until the end.
There are 17 planet-related words hidden in the puzzle:
- Venus
- Mercury
- Earth
- Moon
- Neptune
- Stars
- Spaceship
- Aliens
- Mars
- Pluto
- Saturn
- Uranus
- Dwarf
- Planet
- Jupiter
- Rocket
- Sun
It’s perfect for early finishers, space unit studies, or a quiet learning activity during science lessons. Scroll to the bottom of the page to grab your free copy.
How Many Planets Are There?
There are eight recognized planets in our solar system:
- Mercury
- Venus
- Earth
- Mars
- Jupiter
- Saturn
- Uranus
- Neptune
Pluto was once considered the ninth planet, but in 2006 it was reclassified as a dwarf planet by the International Astronomical Union.
While it’s no longer officially counted among the main planets, many kids still love learning about it—and it’s included in the word search too.
Fun Planet Facts for Kids
Add a little extra learning with these quick planet facts kids will enjoy:
- Venus is the hottest planet—even hotter than Mercury—because its thick atmosphere traps heat, reaching up to 900°F.
- Saturn is known for its stunning rings, made of ice and rock ranging in size from tiny grains to large chunks.
- Jupiter is the biggest planet and has the shortest day, just under 10 hours for one full spin.
- Mars, called the “Red Planet,” gets its color from iron oxide (rust) and is a key focus in the search for signs of life.
- Uranus and Neptune are “Ice Giants,” made largely of icy materials like water, ammonia, and methane.
Looking for more space-themed activities?
Check out all of our free printable solar system worksheets to keep the learning going!
More Planetary Worksheets
If your kids enjoyed the planets word search, here are more space-themed activities to keep the learning going:
- Solar system coloring pages help kids visually connect with each planet while practicing fine motor skills.
- Planet memory game reinforces planet names and features in a fun, interactive format.
- Phases of the moon worksheets introduce the lunar cycle in an approachable and engaging way.
Best Planet Books for Kids
Whenever we start a new topic, I like to have a few great books on hand—and space is always a hit. These are some of our favorite books for learning about planets and beyond:
- 1,000 Facts About Space – This one’s packed with quick, fascinating facts that are perfect for curious kids who love trivia. We’ve flipped through it so many times and still find new things each time.
- Everything Space – The photos in this book are amazing, and it’s easy to read in small chunks. Great for visual learners or kids who just want to explore without reading cover to cover.
- The Complete Guide to Space Exploration – This one’s a bit more in-depth, so it’s great for older kids or those already really into space. It covers missions, rockets, and cool discoveries without being overwhelming.
Need to print later? Add this to your Pinterest board or share it on Facebook. You’ll have it handy whenever you’re ready to use it!
Get the Solar System Word Search Free Printable Here!
Ready to grab your free printable? Just pop your name and email into the form below, and it’s all yours!
If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free planet word search.
Last Updated on 24 May 2025 by Clare Brown