Pluto Day

Pluto Day is a holiday cherished by astronomers, physicists, and space enthusiasts worldwide. It is celebrated annually on February 18. On this day, people remember the most mysterious object in our solar system. Perhaps in the future, humanity will discover more secrets about Pluto and its distant, icy landscape.

History

Pluto was discovered by American astronomer Clyde Tombaugh, who dedicated his life to studying space. He lived to be 90 years old, and his ashes were even sent near Pluto’s surface as his final wish. Pluto Day is officially celebrated by astronomers around the globe, although it is not a state holiday anywhere. The only spacecraft ever sent from Earth to Pluto is NASA’s New Horizons, which launched in 2006 and made its historic flyby in 2015.

Interesting Facts

• The official announcement of Pluto’s discovery took place on February 18, 1930. In 1905, American astronomer Percival Lowell calculated the existence of another planet, initially called “Planet X.”
• The name “Pluto” was suggested by an American schoolgirl after the ancient Roman god of the underworld who dwelled in darkness.
• Studying Pluto is very challenging, which is why it is considered one of the most mysterious objects ever discovered by humans.
• Pluto has some of the harshest conditions in the solar system. Temperatures can reach minus 230 degrees Celsius, and a single year on Pluto is about 248 Earth years.
• There are vast glaciers on Pluto, with more frozen water than on Earth. Pluto is six times smaller than our Moon, so most modern astronomers classify it as a dwarf planet rather than a full-fledged planet.

How to Take Part

To celebrate Pluto Day, read books or articles about space exploration, watch documentaries, or listen to music inspired by the cosmos. Spend a starry evening with a telescope or attend a public astronomy event. Around the world, astronomers hold conferences and seminars to discuss the mysteries of Pluto and other celestial bodies.

When is Pluto Day in 2026?

Pluto Day is observed on February 18 each year.

Observations