Sorry, Virginia (and all the other kids out there who just memorized the solar system): As the dust dies down at the recent astronomer’s conference, word comes to light that Pluto has in fact been demoted to “dwarf planet,” a status it’ll hold with UB313 (Xena) and Ceres.
Tag: Pluto
Much Ado about Pluto.
At a meeting of 2,500 astronomers in Prague to determine the appropriate definition of “planet” (in part due to the Xena challenge), it appears Pluto might soon be reclassified as a “dwarf planet” (as opposed to a “terrestrial planet” (Earth, Mars) or a “gas giant planet.” (Jupiter, Saturn)) rather than fully being demoted to non-planet status. Said one proponent of the plan: “I think we have done something that will make the Plutocrats and the children of the United States happy.“
Stardust Memories / Pluto by Plutonium.
I’ve been extremely derelict in my space coverage around here lately. So, as a quick catch-up: Welcome back, Stardust, and Godspeed, New Horizons.
Quaor from afar.
Astronomers discover a large planetoid in the Kuiper Belt, suggesting it might be time to downgrade Pluto.