I think the problem comes from the last requirement: that the object has cleared it's orbit. The first two requirements are easily quantifiable. It is easy to tell if the object is in orbit around the sun. It is also easy to tell if the object is massive enough to achieve hydrostatic equilibrium. But what does it mean to have cleared an orbit? I can't think of any definition that isn't completely arbitrary.
Well...This was written by Gertrude Stein as part of the 1913 poem, "Sacred Emily". I think it means things are as they appear. It is an identity theory. Mathematically, it makes sense. Phenomenological ly, it can have more than one meaning depending on whether you include the observer in the definition.
Posted by starwatcher-alThe occultation of Mars on the 7th.
Posted by starwatcher-alThe occultation of Mars on the 7th.
Posted by starwatcher-alSolar minimum was in 2019 so the sun is ramping up in flares, spots and prominences.
Posted by starwatcher-alI missed the early phases of the eclipse but the clouds mostly left during totality. All in all a great eclipse. Next one is Nov. 8-22
Posted by starwatcher-alI missed the early phases of the eclipse but the clouds mostly left during totality. All in all a great eclipse. Next one is Nov. 8-22
Posted by RobecologyFor those following the JWST.
Posted by AnonySchmoose The post-launch set-up of the new James Webb telescope has gone very well.
Posted by HumanistJohnImages taken with Stellina (80 mm): M33 Triangulum Galaxy M1 Crab Nebula NGC281 Pacman Nebula in Cassiopeia NGC 6992 Veil Nebula in Cygnus
Posted by HumanistJohnImages taken with Stellina (80 mm): M33 Triangulum Galaxy M1 Crab Nebula NGC281 Pacman Nebula in Cassiopeia NGC 6992 Veil Nebula in Cygnus
Posted by HumanistJohnImages taken with Stellina (80 mm): M33 Triangulum Galaxy M1 Crab Nebula NGC281 Pacman Nebula in Cassiopeia NGC 6992 Veil Nebula in Cygnus
Posted by HumanistJohnImages taken with Stellina (80 mm): M33 Triangulum Galaxy M1 Crab Nebula NGC281 Pacman Nebula in Cassiopeia NGC 6992 Veil Nebula in Cygnus
Posted by HumanistJohnImages taken October 2nd 2021 with Stellina 1.
Posted by HumanistJohnImages taken October 2nd 2021 with Stellina 1.
Posted by HumanistJohnImages taken October 2nd 2021 with Stellina 1.
Posted by starwatcher-al Did you know that you can see Venus in the daytime?
Posted by starwatcher-alOne of these days I think that I'll figure out this Nikon.