How Do Scientists Classify Planets?

An illustration of solar system.

Learn the three criteria for classifying planets and discover why Pluto is now considered part of the Kuiper belt. When Pluto was discovered in 1930, it was classified as the ninth planet in the solar system. However, advances in technology brought about new knowledge of Pluto, and it is now recognized as a dwarf planet.

(Source: DCMP)

Metadata

Keywords:
astronomy

Files 1

  • How Do Scientists Classify Planets?

    Type:
    Video
    Format:
    Streaming
    Accommodations:
    English Audio Descriptions - Visual, English Captions - Auditory
    Languages:
    English
    License:
    DCMP Membership
    Author:
    PBS Learning Media
    Length:
    4 minutes