04.02.10: Pluto Re-imaged.

The most controversial planet (or do you say dwarf planet, or plutoid?) got a new look today. In a press conference, NASA researchers revealed the new “face” of Pluto; a series of images spanning 270 degrees of rotation. To complete these, astronomers scoured 384 images for 4 years using no less than 20 computers. These [...]

The Maine Solar System Model: An Update.

Jupiter. All Photos by Author.
   The Solar System has become a much more complicated place. As reported in this space last year,  The Maine Solar System model (MSSM) in Aroostook County, Maine was constructed starting in 2000 and was renowned as the world largest solar system representation.

Astro-Event of the Week: July 22nd-28th 2008:Spot Pluto!

Pluto through a Telescope; a Faint Target, Indeed!
(Credit: Jack Scmiding Productions.)
Now, for the telescopic challenge of a lifetime; a chance to spot the elusive and controversial Pluto. Even experienced amateur astronomers have yet to accomplish this feat, and I’ve only done it once with the 14″ Schmitt-Cassegrain at the Flandreau Observatory.

Are you a Planet? A humble proposal.

UB313/Xena/Gabrielle/Eris/Dysnomia!
(Artists’ Conception) 
   Here’s a fun proposal. Next time you find yoursef bored, go into the science department of your local university and just casually pose the question “gee, maybe Pluto should/shouldn’t be a planet.” Then stand back and watch the slide rules fly (yes real science geeks still pack slide rules, for when the apocalyspe [...]

Is Pluto a Planet? by David Weintraub

The issue of planet-hood has become a hot button topic in the astronomical community as of late.

   In is “Pluto a Planet?” Author David Weintraub tackles the thorny issue that has plagued astronomers and school children alike. 

July 08 News & Notes.

 
Eris, Xena, or Plutoid? Note tiny Dysnomia to the right. (Credit, APOD & NASA).
Attack of the Plutoids? On June 11th, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) handed down yet another definition  for trans-Neptunian objects; a new class of planetary bodies, now classified as Plutoids, have sprung into existence.