Horizon - Pluto

[Sonia]

Watched a program this evening on Horizon about the solar system, mainly about Pluto. People in New York don't believe that it's a planet and its dead. Also Australians who belive it is. There were many views.

The AIU in September will give a New Full definition of what "planet" means and also if Pluto is going to remain in the solar system or it isn't going to be concidered a planet anymore.

[Volans]

It is interesting to note that in one of our planetarium shows, "The Search For Life: Are We Alone?", an orrery is displayed but Pluto's orbit is not displayed. This show was produced by the Hayden Planetarium in NY.

[Dujon]

'Dead' as in 'non-sentient'? I'm not at all surprised, I tend to that argument myself.

As to the definition of the word 'planet' as supposed to, say, 'satellite' or 'temporary visa holder' I shall keep my own counsel.

[[1ponders]]

It will be dumped as a planet from a scientific viewpoint, but I believe it will be given Historic Status as a planet. Otherwise where does 2003UB313 come in at nearly twice the mass.

[astroron]

Doesn't the word Planet mean wonderer? Let's not let these politicaly correct "Astronomers'' change history, it was named the ninth planet of the solar system and in my opinion should stay that way.
If we have to name more planets so be it.

[Soldant]

I don't think it should have been given the title of planet, but they shouldn't take it away. It's Pluto, for crying out loud! It's been named a planet for ages, does it really matter if they just left it alone? If they don't want to consider it a planet by definition, fine, but there's no reason to strip it of its title.

[xstream]

Poor old Clyde Tombaugh (http://www.klx.com/clyde/)would turn in his grave, may he RIP.

[astro_nutt]

Amen to that..
I watched the abc doco "Universe"...Prior to his death NASA asked Clyde Tombaugh for permission to visit his planet..and as a final wish Clyde Tombaugh requested that he visit Pluto..after which the capsule carrying his ashes would be placed on a nearby Kuiper Belt Object for all eternity.
In respect to him, the discoverer the of Planet "X"...leave history as it is.

[Sonia]

Its been Pluto for 76 years, so why change it now!

And yes planet does mean "wanderer" but from September there's going to be a new definition.

[Gargoyle_Steve]

If Pluto is dropped as what happens to the old "planetary" mnemonic
"Most Volcanoes Erupt Mulberry Jam Sandwiches Under Normal....."

What do we do without "Pressure" ?? It no longer makes sense!


Perhaps instead:
"Many Vulgar Earthlings Make Junior Satellites Unilaterally Nonexistent"

copyright Steve 2006

;)

[ballaratdragons]

Planet, Giant Asteroid, ball of Ice, hairball, frozen Fairies fart, who cares. It's name is Pluto whatever it is!

Why can't they just leave well enough alone. But I suppose the 'Committee for Naming Stuff' has to pop it's head up every now and then to justify it's existence as a committee for naming stuff! Or they become redundant.

[Soldant]

That or they're running out of things to name that are significant to the general public. But like Gretel from Big Brother, they have to have a job... right?