2006-08-16 20:50:24 · 5 answers · asked by jewel 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
The point in Pluto's orbit that is closest to the Sun is called the perihelion, but technically that is only one point in its orbit and it only spends an instant there. There is no special term for the part of Pluto's orbit that is closer to the Sun than Neptune.
2006-08-17 01:51:52 · answer #1 · answered by campbelp2002 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Tonkatruk has provided a good answer, but it is not exact. Perihelion is a single point on an orbit.
My understanding of your question is that you are asking about the portion of Pluto's orbit where for several years it is closer to the sun that Neptune.
I agree with Rhsaunders. I have never heard a term applied to that period. Why don't you make up a word, and officially propose it to the internationa astronomical community?
2006-08-17 08:54:09 · answer #2 · answered by sparc77 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As long as we're still using the 9 planet model of the solar system I would use the term "8th planet" when Pluto is closer to the sun than Neptune.
2006-08-17 05:28:42 · answer #3 · answered by fenwick 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
perhaps you are thinking of perihelion? perihelion is the name used to describe the position in orbit when a planet is closest to the sun.
2006-08-17 04:02:04 · answer #4 · answered by tonkatruk_2001 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I have never heard of such a term, even though I am knowledgeable on the subject.
2006-08-17 03:56:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋