Physics Colloquium - Fall 2006 - What is a Planet? Why not Pluto?
Sponsored by the Maynard F. Jordan Planetarium and the Dorothy Whitehouse Memorial Fund.
For more information call the Jordan Planetarium 581-1341 or surf to www.galaxymaine.com/pluto/.
Presents
Dr. Darren Williams
Assistant Professor of Physics & Astronomy
Penn State Erie, the Behrend College
What is a Planet? Why not Pluto?
Pluto has long been considered a planet by the astronomical community and the general public. Now more than 76 years after its discovery, Pluto has been reclassified – some would say demoted - to "dwarf planet" in consideration of its small size and the countless icy objects now known to orbit the Sun beyond Neptune.
The recent vote and redefining of "planet" has one historical precedent in the 19th century and will not in any way alter our present understanding of Pluto or its moons. The topic, "What is a Planet? Why not Pluto?", will draw on his 21st century knowledge of stars and planets to make some sense out of the controversy over recent changes.
Dr. Darren Williams has had his research featured in such publications as Nature, National Geographic, Astronomy, Sky and Telescope and Discover magazines. His studies focus on planets, including those found orbiting other stars, and their prospect for supporting life. Dr. Williams is known for his engaging and enthusiastic deliveries and explanations of astronomical concepts that are clear even to the non-technical audiences he entertains. The topic, What is a Planet? Why not Pluto?, will draw on his 21st century knowledge of stars and planets to make some sense out of the controversy over recent changes.
Thursday, November 9, 2006
7 p.m.
100 D.P. Corbett Hall
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