The Trouble with "Planets"

The subject of planets has been much in the news recently, with the press concentrating on the alleged "demotion" of Pluto and largely ignoring the scientific context of the situation. Knowledge of our outer Solar System has grown immensely in the last 15 years, and the rapid pace of discovery has led us to realize (as often happens in science) that our previous terminology is too loose. I will discuss the scientific context that has led us to the much-discussed "definition of planet" at the recent International Astronomical Union meeting, explain the general intent of the change, and summarize what may happen in the ensuing brouhaha. I will also discuss the future prospects of "planet" and "dwarf planet" discovery in our Solar System.