Makemake vs. Pluto

Attribute	Makemake	Pluto
Diameter	1,430 km	2,377 km
Orbital Period	309.9 years	248.0 years
Distance from Sun	6.8 billion km	5.9 billion km
Moons	1 known moon	5 known moons
Discovery Date	March 31, 2005	February 18, 1930

Introduction

When it comes to dwarf planets in our solar system, Makemake and Pluto are two fascinating objects that have captured the curiosity of astronomers and space enthusiasts alike. While both are classified as dwarf planets, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will explore the attributes of Makemake and Pluto, comparing their size, composition, orbit, and other key features.

Size

One of the most noticeable differences between Makemake and Pluto is their size. Makemake is slightly smaller than Pluto, with a diameter of approximately 870 miles compared to Pluto's diameter of about 1,473 miles. This makes Pluto the largest known dwarf planet in our solar system, while Makemake falls into the category of medium-sized dwarf planets. Despite their size difference, both objects are significantly smaller than the eight planets in our solar system.

Composition

Another important aspect to consider when comparing Makemake and Pluto is their composition. Makemake is composed primarily of rock and ice, similar to Pluto. However, Makemake's surface is dominated by frozen methane, giving it a reddish-brown coloration. In contrast, Pluto's surface is a mix of rock, water ice, and frozen nitrogen, which contributes to its distinctive appearance. Both dwarf planets have thin atmospheres, but Pluto's atmosphere is more complex and dynamic than Makemake's.

Orbit

When it comes to their orbits, Makemake and Pluto also exhibit differences. Makemake is located in the outer regions of our solar system, beyond the orbit of Neptune, in a region known as the Kuiper Belt. Its orbit is relatively circular and takes approximately 309 years to complete. On the other hand, Pluto's orbit is more elliptical and inclined, bringing it closer to the sun at certain points in its orbit. Pluto's orbit is also influenced by its relationship with Neptune, leading to a unique orbital resonance between the two objects.

Surface Features

Both Makemake and Pluto have intriguing surface features that have been observed by spacecraft missions such as New Horizons. Makemake's surface is relatively smooth and lacks any significant geological features such as mountains or valleys. In contrast, Pluto's surface is more diverse, with icy mountains, plains, and even a heart-shaped region known as Tombaugh Regio. Pluto's surface also shows evidence of recent geological activity, such as cryovolcanism and tectonic processes, which are not as prominent on Makemake.

Moons

One interesting aspect of both Makemake and Pluto is their moons. Makemake has one known moon, named S/2015 (136472) 1, which was discovered in 2015. This moon is relatively small and orbits Makemake at a distance of about 13,000 miles. In comparison, Pluto has five known moons, the largest of which is Charon. Charon is so large compared to Pluto that the two objects are sometimes considered a binary system. Pluto's other moons, such as Nix and Hydra, are much smaller and have irregular shapes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Makemake and Pluto are two intriguing dwarf planets with unique characteristics that set them apart from each other. While Makemake is slightly smaller and reddish-brown in color, Pluto is larger and has a more diverse surface composition. Their orbits, surface features, and moon systems also exhibit differences that make each object a fascinating subject of study for astronomers. By comparing the attributes of Makemake and Pluto, we gain a better understanding of the diversity and complexity of our solar system's dwarf planets.