It's been 20 years since Pluto lost planet status. Will it ever get its title back?

On August 24, 2006, the International Astronomical Union reclassified Pluto as a dwarf planet. This decision, which sparked widespread controversy, was based on new criteria for defining planets. The reclassification was part of a broader effort to standardize the definition of a planet, which had previously been ambiguous.

The demotion of Pluto has since sparked ongoing debate and discussion within the scientific community and among the public. Some argue that Pluto's unique characteristics warrant its reclassification as a planet, while others maintain that the current definition is appropriate. The New Orleans 100, Smithsonian Magazine, and Space have all explored the emotional and scientific dimensions of this debate.

Pluto's status remains a topic of interest and speculation. The Smithsonian Magazine notes enduring public affection for the icy body, despite its reclassification. Meanwhile, Space suggests that Pluto's demotion has contributed to a greater appreciation of the diversity within our solar system.