June 12, 2008

9th Rock from the Sun

Plutoid chosen as name for Solar System objects like Pluto, IAU

Pluto's namesakes: Similar bodies are 'plutoids', AP

"It was not enough to satisfy leading Pluto-as-a-planet advocate Alan Stern, a former NASA space sciences chief and principal investigator on a mission to Pluto. Stern said a rival group could be formed to the IAU, which he said was too secretive in its decision-making. "It's just some people in a smoke-filled room who dreamed it up," Stern said. "Plutoids or hemorrhoids, whatever they call it. This is irrelevant."


Posted by kcowing at June 12, 2008 12:51 AM
Comments

This really is a non-story. Pluto, and other similar bodies do not become any less interesting just because someone invented a new name for them.

Posted by: Mr Squid at June 12, 2008 8:41 AM

Perspective is needed on this issue.

As a peace offering in this "apples vs. oranges debate," I propose the following compromise.

Earth size (approximately) rocky planets will be called "apple size things." Pluto would therefore be in the object category of apples, along with Earth.

Jupiter size gas ball worlds will be called "an orange the size of Yankee Stadium things."

There. That should help.

Posted by: Gonzo at June 12, 2008 12:58 PM

Sure ,I guess so, if you like calling grapes and raisins apples.

Posted by: KC at June 12, 2008 3:07 PM
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