The temperature on Mercury varies drastically due to its thin atmosphere and proximity to the Sun. During the day, temperatures can soar up to about 800 degrees Fahrenheit (427 degrees Celsius). However, when night falls, temperatures can plummet to about -330 degrees Fahrenheit (-201 degrees Celsius).
This extreme temperature fluctuation is caused by the planet’s slow rotation and lack of significant atmospheric insulation. Mercury completes a rotation on its axis roughly every 59 Earth days, which means it experiences long periods of daylight and darkness. Consequently, the side facing the Sun becomes extremely hot, while the side that is in shadow becomes much colder.
In summary, the temperature range on Mercury spans from about -330°F at night to 800°F during the day, making it one of the most extreme environments in our solar system.