Plutino: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

In astronomy, a plutino is a Pluto-like object, insofar as it has the same relative orbit as Pluto. These orbits are stabilized by an orbital resonance with Neptune, similar to Pluto's 3:2 orbital resonance. Plutinos form the inner part of the Kuiper belt. About 1/4 of known Kuiper Belt objects are Plutinos.

Some known plutinos:

• Charon
• 28978 Ixion
• 2004 DW

Since Pluto fits the 3:2 orbital resonance, it is sometimes convenient to include Pluto itself when referring to that orbital category of objects as "plutinos". However, others argue that because "plutino" means "little Pluto", Pluto itself can't be a "little Pluto".