The Dwarf Planets

Wow, the solar system just keeps getting more and more amazing! First, astronomers discovered planets, then moons, and now astronomers are finding dwarf planets! What else could be hidden in the deep areas of the Solar System or in the asteroid belt?

Visit the Solar System Comparison Chart. Located near the bottom of the page you will be able to compare planets to any of the the dwarf planets. Use the drop down menus to compare and get familiar with Ceres, Pluto, Haumea, Makemake, and Eris. What similarities do they share? What differences do they have? Where are they located? How far away from the Sun are they?