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  Updated May 6, 2008
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The Status of Pluto

To Be
or
Pluto Not
to Be?

An International Astronomical Union (IAU) resolution in August 2006 changed the definition of planet so that Pluto no longer qualified. The new definition placed Pluto in a new solar system category, "dwarf planets." However, the IAU definition remains controversial among astronomers. Lowell Observatory, where astronomers discovered Pluto, still lists Pluto among the nine planets.

Defining a planet is also a cultural issue. An informal Internet poll running since 2006 gave a resounding YES to "Pluto is a Planet" by a 4.5 to 1 margin with over 25,000 votes counted by May 2008. Changes in terminology do not affect the physical nature of Pluto or its place in history. Pluto will remain Pluto despite future controversy and discussion.

More info on the Pluto Controversy Here

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