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Pluto: A Planet or a Trans-Neptunian Object?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 March 2016

Michael F. A’Hearn
Michael F. A’Hearn*
Affiliation:
Department of Astronomy, University of Maryland, College Park MD 20742-2421USA

Abstract

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The purposes of classification and taxonomy are reviewed. Using examples from fields ranging from paleontology to planetology, I argue that non-exclusive classifications, which allow Pluto to be considered both a planet and a TNO, provide the most desirable approach to progress in our science.

Type
II. Joint Discussions
Information
Highlights of Astronomy , Volume 12: Highlights of Astronomy. As presented at the XXIVth General Assembly of the IAU, 2000 , 2002 , pp. 201 - 204
Copyright
Copyright © Astronomical Society of Pacific 2002

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