The discovery of Makemake was a significant milestone in the study of trans-Neptunian objects. Led by astronomer Michael E. Brown and his team at the Palomar Observatory in California, they employed advanced observational techniques to locate this distant dwarf planet. Makemake, which is roughly two-thirds the size of Pluto, was detected as part of broader research into the Kuiper Belt, an area filled with icy bodies and remnants from the solar system's formation. The team initially set out to observe dwarf planets and other Kuiper Belt objects, and on one particular night, they were able to capture the faint light emitted by Makemake, allowing them to confirm its existence. The name 'Makemake' comes from the Rapa Nui god of fertility and creator of humanity, underscoring the rich cultural context often associated with astronomical discoveries.

Makemake's atmosphere, which is primarily composed of nitrogen along with traces of other substances, created considerable excitement in the astronomical community. Its discovery not only increased the number of known dwarf planets but also provided vital data about their physical characteristics and composition. Brown and his colleagues were able to analyze light reflected from the surface of Makemake, revealing information about its albedo and surface features. This data contributes to the understanding of the thermal and physical properties of other icy bodies in the Kuiper Belt, offering insights into the early solar system's formation and evolution.