Pluto

Pluto is a dwarf planet located in the outer regions of our solar system. It was considered the ninth planet until 2006 when it was reclassified as a dwarf planet by the International Astronomical Union (IAU).

Characteristics of Pluto:

• Size: Pluto is smaller than Earth's moon, with a diameter of about 1,473 miles (2,370 kilometers).
• Orbit: It has a highly elliptical and inclined orbit, which means it sometimes comes closer to the sun than Neptune.
• Composition: Pluto is composed primarily of rock and ice, with a thin atmosphere consisting of nitrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide.
• Moons: Pluto has five known moons, the largest of which is Charon.

Discovery and Exploration:

Pluto was discovered in 1930 by American astronomer Clyde Tombaugh. It wasn't until 2015 that NASA's New Horizons spacecraft made a historic flyby of Pluto, providing the first close-up images and scientific data about the dwarf planet and its moons.

Study Guide:

To better understand the topic of Pluto, consider exploring the following questions:

1. Why was Pluto reclassified as a dwarf planet?
2. What are some of the key features of Pluto's surface?
3. How does Pluto compare to the other planets in our solar system?
4. What is the significance of the New Horizons mission in our understanding of Pluto?

Additionally, you can research the latest developments in the study of Pluto and its moons, as well as the ongoing exploration efforts in the outer regions of our solar system.

By delving into these questions and topics, you can gain a deeper understanding of Pluto and its place in our solar system.