Battle of the planets

The illustration of the International Astronomic Union (IAU) shows how the new solar system could look. Photograph: EPA/IAU/Martin Komm

The divergence in feelings some have for planets they will never visit can take you by surprise. The International Astronomical Union's proposals for defining planets were supposed to clear up arguments and confusion on Pluto's final status. Comparing the work of headline writers in British newspapers, however, you could be forgiven for thinking the astronomers had failed.

The Guardian has "Pluto survives as solar system acquires three more planets". The Times offers "Astronomers relegate 'dwarf' Pluto to second division of planets".

Actually, both are true. The proposals make Pluto one of a class of planets consisting of the smaller and more distant bodies (plutons) but, in doing so, frustrate attempts to strike it from the solar system's planet roll call altogether.

You could say, in tabloid speak, this makes Pluto plucky, a triumphant underdog, but some see it as a fudge. "I just want to go on record as saying that this is one of the most dimwitted proposals I've heard in a long time," declares Kevin Drum in Political Animal.