How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming

Most of us grew up believing in the existence of nine planets in the Solar System, with Pluto occupying a place on its distant edges. But in 2005, astronomer Mike Brown discovered Eris — an object comparable in size to Pluto that laid claim to being the tenth planet. Instead of universal recognition, however, this discovery provoked a fierce debate that turned the familiar world of astronomy into a veritable hornet's nest.
Even then, other objects were known to exist beyond Neptune's orbit that were comparable in size to Pluto. Should they be recognized as planets as well? Ultimately, these discussions led to a sensational decision: Pluto was stripped of its planetary status. Angry letters poured in to Mike Brown from colleagues, amateur astronomers, and even schoolchildren, as he had "killed" the very planet he had dreamed of discovering for years.
«How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming» is a scientist's confession, full of drama and humor, from a man who, despite widespread condemnation, was forced to demote everyone's favorite planet. It's a first-person account of the most tumultuous year in modern astronomy, which inspires us to reflect more deeply on our place in the universe. This book will appeal to anyone who dreams of exploring space and wants to understand how scientific progress happens, even when it requires revising established ideas.