37C3 - How Many Planets in Our Solar System? Glad You Asked!

Discover how the definition of a planet has evolved over time, from Pluto's reclassification as a dwarf planet to the broader understanding of our solar system, and explore the vast diversity of planet systems in the universe.

Key takeaways
  • The concept of a “planet” has evolved over time with new discoveries and understanding of our solar system.
  • The definition of a dwarf planet was introduced in 2006 as a way to categorize Pluto.
  • The solar system has changed understanding of the concept of a planet, considering the discovery of dwarf planets and other celestial bodies that do not fit the traditional definition of a full-fledged planet.
  • The notion of a “planet” is an arbitrary construct that has changed over time in response to new discoveries and a clearer understanding of the solar system.
  • The universe is vast and contains many different planet systems, including some that are similar and some that are quite different from our own.