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News Headline: Pluto Sues for Planet-ship


Published: Thu, 01 Apr 2010 06:08:00 -0400

On August, 24, 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU), decided to redefine a planet. Because of this new definition, Pluto, was and still is no longer considered a planet in our solar system. Now, about four yrs. later, the infamous, adorable, citizen of the Disney World Pluto, has decided to take a stand and sue the IAU.

Mickey Mouse, another widely known Disnian, has signed on and is serving as Pluto's attorney. He says that ever since Pluto found out about this tragic event, he has never been the same, but was nervous about really voicing his opinion--until now. Pluto believes that it is not right or fare to take away a planet from the solar system, especially after it's been recognized as a planet for a long time by scientists. He also has some personal ties to this planet which makes his argument all the much stronger. With tears in his puppy-dog eyes he said, “Woof, woof, ruff, woof, bark.” Mickey translated Pluto's statement. He said, “Pluto is sad and frustrated because he was named after this planet. If it wasn't for its existence and recognition as a planet, he might not have been given the name he so deerly loves.”

The popularity of Pluto and Mickey Mouse, as well as their moving statements, has won the majority of people all over the world, but the IAU is still not willing to budge from their opinion. A representative from IAU, who wishes to remain anonymous, stated: Here at the IAU we strive to be as consistent as possible. The former-planet, Pluto, had numerous differences when compared to the other planets. We just had to disqualify it; plus, Pluto is still considered a "dwarf planet'” In reply to this, thoze who argue for Pluto to be reinstated as a planet say that going from a planet to a dwarf planet is a significant transition. There are about forty-four known dwarf planets, and only eight planets, so being considered a dwarf planet is not a big deal for Pluto. It is in actuality, a major downgrade.

 This debate keeps going back and forth, and the tension is rising. At this point, no one is quite sure who will come out ahead when this is all over. Some say that because it is such a big controversy, it will not be resolved any time soon. However, there is a scheduled hearing for this issue at the Supreme Court this week, and if the jury is able to make a decision, this matter may be settled once and for all. For now, we have only to wait and do whatever we can to bring this dispute to a peaceful end.

Works Cited Inman, Mason. “Pluto Not a Planet, Astronomers Rule.” National Geographic Society. news.nationalgeographic.com

 

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