Minor planets are celestial objects that orbit the sun but are not traditional planets or comets. They include asteroids, Trojans, and centaurs, and there are over 500 million in the universe. Pluto was reclassified as a minor planet in 2006, along with Eris, Haume, Makemate, and Ceres. Naming procedures are in place, and suggestions must meet specific requirements and be approved by a committee of professional astronomers.
A minor planet is any celestial object that revolves around the sun and is not classified as a traditional planet or comet. There are various categories of minor planets, including asteroids, Trojans, and centaurs. The dwarf planet designation was created in 2006 when many of the minor planets were placed in this category. Other astronomical objects classified as modern planets include trans-Neptunian objects and Kuiper belt objects.
There are more than 500 million minor planets in the universe, and more are discovered almost every day. In 1801 Ceres was the first minor planet to be discovered. It has since been classified as a dwarf planet, as have Pluto and a large number of other minor planets. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) reclassified many of the comets and minor planets in 2006, renaming some as dwarf planets and small solar system bodies. While each is classified according to specific shape, orbital, and gravity standards, all are generally referred to as minor planets.
In 2006, Pluto, classified as a planet since its discovery in 1930, was demoted to a minor planet. This reclassification occurred after the discovery of Eris in 2005. Initially, Eris was listed as the tenth planet, although it is larger in diameter than Pluto. This discovery led the IAU to reevaluate the definition and prompted new standards for classifying a celestial body as a planet. Under the new standards, Pluto and Eris joined Haume, Makemate and Ceres in being classified as dwarf planets.
Special naming procedures have been put in place for minor planets. For example, trans-Neptunian objects are all named after underworld spirits, Trojans after heroes of the Trojan War, and centaurs after mythological centaurs. Naming is an extremely detailed process that can take decades to complete. Only the discoverer of a minor planet has the opportunity to suggest names to the Committee for Small Body Nomenclature.
Once specific and detailed requirements are met, names can be submitted to the nominating committee. This committee is made up of 15 professional astronomers from various locations around the world. Proposed names cannot be similar to any existing planetary satellite or minor planet, must not be longer than 16 characters, and must be pronounceable. It is preferable that the proposed name consists of only one word and that it is harmless. Also, pet names are discouraged and commercial names are not accepted.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
