February 18, 2005 marked the 75th anniversary of the planet Pluto's discovery by Clyde W. Tombaugh. It is the only planet discovered by an American and the only one found in the 20th century.

Dr. Tombaugh passed away after an enormously successful career in astronomy on January 17, 1997. That week in 2006 NASA successfully launched the New Horizons spacecraft on its 10 year trip to fly by the planet Pluto to study its atmosphere, surface features and three moons. Some of Clyde's ashes were included in the spacecraft's payload, a fitting tribute to his immense contribution to science.

On January 17th, 2007 Dr. Tombaugh will become eligble to be honored by the United States Postal Service with a commemorative postage stamp. The goal of clydetombaugh.com is to raise awareness of this great man's contributions and organize the movement to award him his proper due with a stamp. Please click "sign the petiton" to join with us.

Powered by StirSite