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Old June 13th 06, 03:18 PM posted to sci.space.policy,sci.astro.amateur,sci.astro,alt.astronomy
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Default Definition of a planet

steve wrote:
With this set to be finalised fairly soon in September 2006 I think it
is essential that a few sensible parameters are added.

1) A body in orbit around a star.

2) Size must be larger than Pluto ( or another agreed specified size
and mass) to give a minimum size UNLESS extra-terrestial life is found
on the planet when a much smaller size would be allowed.

3) If the size of a moon is similar (to a stated percentage e.g. 80%)
to the larger body in its group it to can be called a planet if it
meets (1) and (2)
Thus it is possibe to have binary planets.

4) It would probably be necessary to specify a maximum distance from
the star in which the planet is in orbit to dis-allow wandering rocks.

Planets orbit stars individually. Moons orbit planets individually.
Planets must be planet size, moons must be moon size. Rocks are odd
shaped. Dust is dust.

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