Learn all about dwarf planets this Friday, March 8 at the Los Alamos Nature Center. This talk begins at 7 p.m. Additionally, see the full-dome film “Exoplanets” on Saturday, March 9 at 2 p.m. Photo Courtesy PEEC
PEEC NEWS
Learn all about dwarf planets at the Los Alamos Nature on Friday, March 8 at 7 p.m. Paul Arendt will lead this discussion and explore how planets are designated, the current status of dwarf planets and similar bodies that may be occupants of our solar system.
Throughout history, various bodies in our solar system have been deemed planets, but were subsequently relabeled as asteroids and satellites. None of these changes have been more controversial than Pluto recently being downgraded to a dwarf planet. Arendt will discuss these name changes and the motivations behind them at this talk.
In addition to Arendt’s talk, the nature center will play the full-dome film “Exoplanets” on Saturday, March 9 at 2 p.m. This film explores how scientists find exoplanets and takes the audience past our solar system to see which exoplanets may harbor life.
Because there is limited seating in the planetarium, PEEC asks that you please purchase tickets for both this talk and film in advance. Tickets may be purchased by visiting or call the Los Alamos Nature Center at 505-662-0460. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for children. Events in the planetarium are not recommended for kids under age 4.
For information about this and other PEEC programs, visit http://www.peecnature.org, email programs@peecnature.orgor call (505) 662-0460.
PEEC was founded in 2000 to serve the community of Los Alamos. It offers people of all ages a way toenrich their lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies. PEEC operates the Los Alamos Nature Center at 2600 Canyon Road, holds regular programs and events, and hosts a number of interest groups from birding to hiking to butterfly watching. PEEC activities are open to everyone; however, members receive exclusive benefits such as discounts on programs and merchandise. Annual memberships start at $35. To learn more, visit http://www.peecnature.org.