Venetia Burney

Educator who named the planet Pluto

Venetia Burney - Thinkers & Philosophers born July 11th, 1918
Born
Died

2009
17 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English educator, contributed to astronomy by naming the planet Pluto at the age of 11. The name was suggested during a conversation with her grandfather, who was an avid astronomer. This proposal gained traction and was ultimately adopted by the astronomical community. Burney's suggestion reflected the mythological theme of naming planets after Roman gods. She pursued a career in education, teaching for several decades, and remained involved in discussions about astronomy and science education throughout her life.

Named the planet Pluto in 1930

Had a long career in education

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