August M
A long-settled space debate is back in the spotlight after fresh political backing in the United States. Calls to restore Pluto’s status are gaining attention from both scientists and public figures.
The renewed push is stirring controversy nearly two decades after the dwarf planet classification was introduced.
Renewed debate
NASA chief Jared Isaacman has voiced support for reclassifying Pluto as a planet, aligning himself with former President Donald Trump’s position, according to Ziarre.com.
“I 100% support President Trump in his bid to make Pluto great again,” Isaacman told The Daily Mail.
He also referenced Pluto’s discovery roots in Kansas, saying recognition should reflect its historical significance.
The comments have reignited discussion over Pluto’s place in the solar system.
Why it changed
Pluto was discovered in 1930 by astronomer Clyde W. Tombaugh and was long considered the ninth planet.
That changed in 2006 when the International Astronomical Union redefined what qualifies as a planet.
Under the new criteria, Pluto was reclassified as a “dwarf planet” because it had not cleared its orbital path of other objects.
The decision followed discoveries of similar bodies such as Eris, which challenged the traditional definition.
Growing support
Support for restoring Pluto’s status is spreading beyond the scientific community.
Actor William Shatner criticized the IAU, calling them “a bunch of corrupt nerds seeking power” and urging Trump to act.
Elon Musk also reacted, saying, “I would support that.”
Some U.S. politicians, including Senator Mike Lee, have publicly backed the idea as well.
Reality check
Despite growing attention, experts note that a U.S. president does not have the authority to redefine planetary classifications.
The issue ultimately rests with international scientific bodies.
Past debates show such classifications can evolve. Ceres, once considered a planet, was later redefined in a similar way.
Former NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine also questioned the criteria, suggesting the definition of a planet remains open to interpretation.
Sources: Ziarre.com, The Daily Mail
