Since first earning recognition as the ninth planet discovered in the solar system and then later being classified as a dwarf planet, Pluto could soon hold a new title as Arizona’s state planet if a new bill is passed.
House Bill 2477 was proposed by Kevin Schindler, who is a historian at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Ariz., where Pluto was first discovered by Clyde Tombaugh in 1930. The bill aims to name Pluto Arizona’s state planet as a way to honor the dwarf planet’s historical ties to the state and bring a sense of lighthearted pride to the people of Arizona.
Mathematician and astronomer Percival Lowell founded the Lowell Observatory in 1894. It was here that he began his passionate search for “Planet X,” the hypothetical ninth planet he believed to exist in the solar system. While Lowell didn’t live to see his quest realized, his years of research and findings led Tombaugh to eventually discover the ninth planet with the help of new technology.
Since Pluto’s discovery on Feb. 18, 1930, the Lowell Observatory has continued to study “Planet X” over the years, marking significant milestones and new discoveries surrounding the dwarf planet, including being the first to create albedo maps of Pluto and characterize the dwarf planet’s composition. Today, visitors can take self-guided tours through the very building where Tombough discovered Pluto and view the telescope that brought the dwarf planet to view for the first time.
The bill aiming to make Pluto Arizona’s state planet is sponsored by State Representative Justin Wilmeth and recently advanced at the State Capitol after being approved by the House of Government Committee with an eight-to-one vote on January 31. If passed, HB 2477 will mark an exciting new chapter for the unique connection between Pluto and Arizona.
Learn more about Pluto and the Lowell Observatory at www.lowell.edu.
