Trouble in the heavens?

ISSUE 56 – STEVE KOVACS FUN WITH MAPS

DAILY FEATURE: By Steve Kovacs (Introduction by Chuck Gibson)

LOVELAND, OH (August 24, 2020) – In Issue 56 of Steve Kovacs Fun with Maps we learn about the fall from grace of Pluto – The Planet, not the Disney creation

Sad Day in the Sky

Today is the 14th anniversary of Pluto’s demotion from planet to dwarf planet.

Pluto was discovered in 1930.  It is an icy and rocky object taking 248 years to orbit once around the sun.

For decades children did learn in school that Pluto is the outermost planet in our solar system.   It is adored by many kids and even adults, possibly because of its name although it is not related to Mickey Mouse’s goofy pet dog by the same name.

When the International Astronomical Union redefined the criteria for a celestial body to be called a planet, sadly after 76 years Pluto fell short and was reclassified.  Apparently, size does matter when it comes to astronomy.

Can you name the planets in the solar system?

Here is an uncommon celestial chart from 1743 by Black, showing the southern sky along with its constellations.

Steve Kovacs and his wife Theresa reside in Loveland, Ohio where they raised their two children. He is a passionate collector of antique maps.

Click here to visit his antique map boutique world-on-paper online. Watch for his daily feature Steve Kovacs: Antique Maps & Fun Facts here on Loveland Beacon.