The announcement of Eris, a new dwarf planet, marked a significant moment in the study of our solar system. Discovered by a team of astronomers led by Mike Brown, the object was identified using advanced telescopes at the Palomar Observatory in California. Eris is located in a region known as the scattered disc, a distant area of the solar system populated by icy bodies. It was initially designated as 2003 UB313 during its discovery in 2003 but was later named Eris after the Greek goddess of strife and discord, reflecting the debate and controversy surrounding the classification of celestial objects.

Eris caught the attention of astronomers not just because of its size but also due to its mass, which is estimated to be about 27% more than that of Pluto. This discovery reignited discussions regarding the criteria for classifying planets, leading to Pluto's reclassification as a dwarf planet in 2006. The discovery of Eris and its subsequent implications contributed to a paradigm shift in the way scientists understand and categorize the bodies of our solar system.

In addition to its scientific importance, the discovery of Eris has provided insights into the dynamic and complex nature of the outer solar system. As more objects like Eris are identified, they continue to challenge our preexisting definitions and concepts related to planetary science, prompting further exploration and research into similar celestial bodies. Eris' surface is believed to be covered in a layer of ice and possibly a hint of methane snow, suggesting a rich environment for study of planetary atmospheres and geology.