A terrestrial planet is a rocky or solid planet that shares similarities with Earth. It typically has a solid surface, composed of minerals and rocks, and is found within the inner regions of a star system. These planets can vary in size, but they are generally smaller than gas giants like Jupiter or Saturn. They possess an atmosphere, although it may be thinner compared to Earth's, and they orbit their parent star in relatively close proximity. Terrestrial planets are considered potential candidates for supporting life due to their solid surfaces and presence of essential elements and compounds necessary for life as we know it.