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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming summary
Mike Brown
Brief summary
How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming by Mike Brown is a captivating memoir that reveals the controversial story behind the demotion of Pluto from being the ninth planet in our solar system.
Table of Contents
How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming
Summary of key ideas
Revisiting the Solar System
In How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming, Mike Brown, a renowned astronomer, takes us on a journey through the solar system, starting with his discovery of Eris, a celestial body larger than Pluto. This discovery, made in 2005, led to a re-evaluation of what constitutes a planet, and ultimately, the demotion of Pluto from its planetary status.
As Brown recounts his journey, he shares his passion for astronomy and the thrill of discovering new celestial bodies. He describes the painstaking process of identifying Eris, which involved years of observation and data analysis. The discovery of Eris, and its implications for the definition of a planet, sparked a heated debate in the scientific community and among the general public.
The Demotion of Pluto
The heart of How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming lies in the controversy surrounding the demotion of Pluto. Brown explains that the International Astronomical Union (IAU) convened to establish a formal definition of a planet, a task that had never been necessary before. The IAU's decision to exclude Pluto from the list of planets was met with widespread disappointment and even outrage.
Despite the public's attachment to Pluto as the ninth planet, Brown argues that the IAU's decision was based on scientific principles. He explains that the new definition of a planet required a celestial body to clear its orbit of other debris, a criterion that Pluto did not meet. This led to its reclassification as a "dwarf planet," a term that Brown himself had proposed.
The Human Side of Science
Amidst the scientific and astronomical discussions, How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming also offers a glimpse into the human side of science. Brown shares the personal toll of the controversy, including the hate mail and death threats he received, and the impact on his family. He reflects on the unexpected consequences of his discovery and the emotional burden of being at the center of such a contentious issue.
Despite the challenges, Brown maintains his passion for astronomy and his commitment to advancing our understanding of the universe. He continues to make significant contributions to the field, including the discovery of numerous other celestial bodies beyond Neptune. His story serves as a reminder of the complexities and controversies that can arise in the pursuit of scientific knowledge.
Looking to the Future
In the final chapters of the book, Brown looks to the future of astronomy and space exploration. He discusses the ongoing search for other potentially habitable planets and the technological advancements that are expanding our understanding of the universe. He also reflects on the enduring fascination with Pluto, despite its reclassification.
In conclusion, How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming is a captivating blend of science, personal narrative, and societal impact. Brown's account of the demotion of Pluto challenges us to reconsider our preconceptions and highlights the ever-evolving nature of scientific knowledge. It's a story that reminds us that even the most fundamental concepts can be subject to change in the light of new discoveries.
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What is How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming about?
How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming by Mike Brown is a fascinating account of the controversial decision to reclassify Pluto as a "dwarf planet." Brown, a renowned astronomer, takes us on a journey through his discovery of new celestial bodies in our solar system and the scientific debate that ultimately led to Pluto losing its status as the ninth planet. With wit and insight, he challenges our understanding of what it means to be a planet and sheds light on the ever-evolving field of astronomy.
How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming Review
How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming (2010) by Mike Brown is a captivating book that explores the controversial decision to reclassify Pluto as a dwarf planet. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With a behind-the-scenes perspective, the author shares the thrilling story of his discovery of Eris, the celestial body that led to Pluto's downfall.
- Through riveting storytelling and scientific explanations, the book sheds light on the ever-evolving field of astronomy and the complex nature of our solar system.
- It challenges our preconceived notions about the cosmos and encourages us to question established ideas, igniting a sense of curiosity and wonder.
Who should read How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming?
- Enthusiastic fans of astronomy and space exploration
- Those curious about the ever-evolving nature of scientific discoveries
- Readers who enjoy engaging storytelling combined with insightful scientific insights
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How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming FAQs
What is the main message of How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming?
The main message of How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming is about the discovery that led to Pluto's reclassification and the implications for our understanding of our solar system.
How long does it take to read How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming?
The reading time for How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming a good book? Is it worth reading?
How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming is a fascinating book that offers insights into the scientific process and the evolving understanding of our celestial neighborhood. It is definitely worth a read!
Who is the author of How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming?
The author of How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming is Mike Brown.
What to read after How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming?
If you're wondering what to read next after How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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