Will mass or size prove to make the larger dwarf planet?

The award for biggest dwarf planet in our solar system goes to… well it’s sort of inconclusive. Eris and Pluto are currently competing for largest dwarf planet, however, Pluto is larger in overall raw size, but Eris is more massive. So, how can scientists decide and what method are they using? They observed Eris as it passed in front of a distant star, a called occultation. Now we have a much better estimation of what Eris is and can continue to examine these bodies to determine how they should be classified. Also, thanks to NASA, there is new insight into what’s going on in the center of our Milky Way and commercial space flight continues to get less expensive making it more of a reality for consumers. One organization is even giving away raffle tickets for a chance to take a flight into space for a mere $10.  All this and more on this week’s Sky Talk.For more information on purchasing a raffle ticket for your chance to experience space flight visit the ARES Institute online.[audio: st20101122.mp3]


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