Planet status for Pluto: Debate about classification is likely to rage on

After stripping it of planet status in 2006, some astronomers want to reclassify it once again

Pluto or 134340 MPC, as it’s officially known, is a celestial object with an eccentric orbit. MPC stands for Minor Planet Classification. But for 76 years, Pluto was considered a full-fledged planet. Now, if an influential cabal of astronomers has its way, it could be reclassified as a planet again. However, another equally influential cabal of astronomers will fight to ensure it remains a minor or dwarf planet. Meanwhile, most of the public think it a planet.

At one level, it’s all about academics splitting hairs. Pluto will continue to do its thing regardless of what it’s called. At another level,