If you checked out one of the links to the right on my blog page, you might've noticed the article about the International Astronomical Union's up-coming meeting to decide on the definition of the word "Planet"! Good heavens.
From SpaceWeather.com: "A planet is a celestial body that (a) has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces so that it assumes a hydrostatic equilibrium (nearly round) shape, and (b) is in orbit around a star, and is neither a star nor a satellite of a planet."
On August 24th, astronomers gathered at the IAU General Assembly in Prague will vote on the proposal, yea or nay. If it passes, the Solar System will have twelve planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Ceres, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto and Charon (a double planet) and 2003 UB313.
Is it just me or is "2003 UB313" not the catchy-est of names?
-- Tim
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We will be waiting with bated breath for the announcement on Aug 24! Could you perhaps suggest a name for that unlikely planet? The UB 313 part sounds rather intriguing. Glad you are keeping us abreast of astronomical developments!
You are on the ball...I did finally get my pictures on...thanks to Anne's suggestion that I be more patient...it worked!
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