n this episode of The Curious Kidcast, we blast off to the edge of our solar system to solve one of astronomy's biggest controversies: Pluto's planetary status. Discover why this beloved celestial body was reclassified from planet to dwarf planet, explore its unique features, and learn fascinating facts that make Pluto special despite its demotion.

Episode Highlights

• The discovery of Pluto in 1930 by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh
• How 11-year-old Venetia Burney suggested the name "Pluto"
• The 2006 decision by the International Astronomical Union that changed Pluto's classification
• The three criteria for planetary status and why Pluto fails one of them
• Discoveries from NASA's New Horizons mission in 2015
• Pluto's unique features, including its heart-shaped glacier (Tombaugh Regio)
• Other dwarf planets in our solar system: Eris, Haumea, Makemake, and Ceres

Key Moments

• The discovery and naming of Pluto
• Pluto's unusual characteristics that prompted scientists' questions
• The discovery of Eris and its impact on planetary definitions
• The IAU's three criteria for planets and Pluto's reclassification
• Public reaction to Pluto's demotion
• New Horizons mission and surprising discoveries about Pluto
• Pluto's "dwarf planet" companions
• Curious Kidcast quiz about Pluto
• Fun facts about Pluto and conclusion

Amazing Pluto Facts

1. Super-Long Year: It takes Pluto 248 Earth years to orbit the Sun once!
2. Long Days: A single day on Pluto lasts about 6 Earth days
3. Moon Collector: Despite its small size, Pluto has five moons (Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, and Styx)
4. Extreme Cold: Surface temperatures reach about -375°F (-225°C), cold enough for nitrogen to freeze solid

Learn More About Pluto

• NASA's New Horizons mission website
• International Astronomical Union's definition of planets
• Interactive solar system models and activities for kids
• Books about dwarf planets for young astronomers

Submit your science questions to questions@curiouskidcast.com for a chance to be featured on the show.

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