Lecture 3 - Our Solar System and the Pluto Problem

Class begins with a review of the first problem set. Newton's Third Law is applied in explaining how exoplanets are found. An overview of the Solar System is given; each planet is presented individually and its special features are highlighted. Astronomy is discussed as an observational science, and the subject of how to categorize objects in the Solar System is addressed. The Pluto controversy is given special attention and both sides of the argument regarding its status are considered. **Reading assignment:** The Pluto Controversy (links to various sites related to the demotion of Pluto to the status of "dwarf planet.") [[http://http://www.astro.yale.edu/bailyn/astro160/pluto.html]] **Resources** [[http://oyc.yale.edu/sites/default/files/astr160_lec3_0.pdf|Class Notes - Lecture 3 [PDF] ]]