Pluto Confidential: An Insider Account of the Ongoing Battles over the Status of Pluto by Stephen Maran


Pluto Confidential: An Insider Account of the Ongoing Battles over the Status of Pluto
Title : Pluto Confidential: An Insider Account of the Ongoing Battles over the Status of Pluto
Author :
Rating :
ISBN : 1933771801
ISBN-10 : 9781933771809
Language : English
Format Type : Paperback
Number of Pages : 232
Publication : First published August 1, 2009

When the International Astronomical Union (IAU) adopted a new definition of a "planet" in August 2006, Pluto became a dwarf planet, drawing a divisive line in science and public opinions. The controversy of whether Pluto is a planet continues years later, and passion about the decision remains, pitting scientist against scientist and invoking sentiments and nostalgia from the rest of the world.

With the IAU definition, the future of space objects is forever changed. Learn how this resolution came to be and what it means for astronomy, who implemented it and who is against it, and whether it's the first or millionth time the world's view of astronomy has rotated on its axis.

Written by an astronomer and educator who voted for the IAU resolution—Laurence A. Marschall—and a NASA scientist who supported the opposing petition that resulted—Stephen P. Maran— Pluto Confidential leaves no perspective out and no asteroid unturned in the Pluto debate.

A telescopic look inside the
• History of planetary disputes, including why Jupiter almost wasn't acknowledged
• What Bode's Law is and how it has influenced observations
• Who discovered Pluto and how it was named
• The Kuiper Belt and its role in what it means to be a planet
• Beyond Pluto and the eight distinguished planets

Pluto Confidential: An Insider Account of the Ongoing Battles over the Status of Pluto Reviews

  • Grumpus

    This is a book that educates. Astronomy is one of my interests/hobbies and I still learned a lot from reading this. I especially enjoyed the historical aspect regarding the discoveries of the outer planets. To live those times when skies were light pollution free and ordinary folk could contribute so much *sigh*.

    The book is written by two astronomers with opposing viewpoints as to whether Pluto should be designated a planet. The first part of the book is the historical timeline bringing us to the crucial vote in August 2006 and then each author makes his case for Pluto's planetary status at the end of the book.

    It was very enlightening to have all the facts from both sides of the debate presented to you (other than just the sensational media version) for you to make your own decision. It was surprising to learn that it is mainly in the US that Pluto's demotion caused so much controversy. Why? Because of the Disney character.

    So, Pluto, planet or not? In my opinion, no. The facts presented in the book have changed my opinion and will allow you to make your own informed decision too.