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Earth and Moon with dwarf planets
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Earth and Moon with dwarf planets
Earth and Moon with dwarf planets. Scaled computer artwork of (from left) Earth, the Moon, Pluto and Ceres. The latter are two of the solar systems dwarf planets. Pluto, which used to be a planet, was demoted in August 2006 to the status of dwarf planet, reducing the solar systems number of planets to eight. The definition of a dwarf planet is an object large enough to be spherical due to gravity, and with an independent orbit. A true planet, such as the Earth, has to dominate its orbit around the Sun. Pluto fails because it is one of many Kuiper Belt objects in the outer solar system. Ceres fails because it is one of many objects in the asteroid belt. The Moon fails because it is a satellite of the Earth
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6447919
© DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2006 Asteroid Asteroid Belt August Ceres Change Comparison Dwarf Planet Kuiper Belt Object Moon Planetary Science Pluto Quartet Satellite Scale Size Solar System Changed Computer Artwork Definition Dwarf Planets Pluton
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Earth and Moon alongside two dwarf planets, Pluto and Ceres. Through scaled computer artwork, we are presented with a visual representation of these celestial bodies in relation to one another. However, it is important to note that both Pluto and Ceres have undergone significant changes in their planetary status. Once considered the ninth planet of our solar system, Pluto was controversially redefined as a dwarf planet in August 2006. This decision reduced the number of recognized planets to eight. The demotion was based on the criteria that a true planet must dominate its orbit around the Sun, while Pluto resides among numerous objects within the Kuiper Belt. Similarly, Ceres fails to meet the qualifications for full planetary status due to its location within the asteroid belt. Despite being spherical in shape and possessing an independent orbit, it remains classified as a dwarf planet. Accompanied by our faithful satellite, the Moon, this quartet offers us an opportunity for astronomical comparison and reflection on how our understanding of celestial bodies has evolved throughout history. As we delve further into 21st-century planetary science aided by computer artwork like this illustration from Science Photo Library, we continue to redefine our knowledge of space exploration and expand our comprehension of what lies beyond Earth's borders.
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