Born on August 24
Pluto Becomes a Dwarf Planet
Small world, big debate.
Next: August 24, 2027
Where it comes from
This Story marks the anniversary of 24 August 2006, when astronomers at the General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in Prague voted on what a planet is. New discoveries in the outer Solar System had made a clear definition necessary.
How it's celebrated
There is no formal observance, but the day still sparks friendly debate among stargazers and in classrooms. It is a good moment to learn the eight planets in order, read about the other dwarf planets, or look at the close-up pictures NASA's New Horizons spacecraft sent back from Pluto in 2015, and decide for yourself…
Did you know
The resolution naming Pluto a dwarf planet passed with 237 votes in favour, 157 against and 17 abstentions.
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Star sign
Virgo · August 23 – September 22 · Earth sign
Careful and kind, the one who notices what everyone else missed.