The International Astronomical Union has finally decided over the fate of Pluto and other recently discovered small planet-like objects. The planet status of Pluto has been revoked as it did not meet the new criteria set out for planets.

Scientists agreed that a "planet" is defined as a celestial body that (a) is in orbit around the Sun, (b) has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to produce a nearly round shape (c) has cleared the neighbourhood around its orbit.

source: http://www.iau2006.org/mirror/www.iau.org/iau0603/index.html

Pour old Pluto is said to have failed the last criteria - now he is recognised as the prototype of a new distinct class, the "dwarf planets".

Just imagine all the fuss that will follow. Teaching materials withdrawn, mislead students burning old study books, people of all age enrolling for the re-sit of science classes, children throwing out their outdated Conquer the Galaxy board-game, who knows, the Greenwich Observatory might have to lock away the telescope pointing at Pluto or if not then native speakers of all possible languages will be sought for the recording of a multi-lingual warning: please note that the small solar system body bearing the same name as the cartoon dog you're looking at is no longer a planet but has been classified as a dwarf planet, thank you for your attention, you may now continue to appreciate the good sense of humour of our staff.

alice