Pluto

Synopsis

In this segment of The New Yorker, batman cartoon editor discusses the fascination of Spanish cartoonists with space and aliens, particularly during the 1960s space race. He highlights the significance of the first moon landing and its impact on popular culture. The discussion includes a cartoon from April 26, 1930, by Allen Dunn, which reflects on the discovery of Pluto on February 18, 1930, and how it altered horoscopes. The editor also mentions a cartoon by Jack Ziegler that humorously depicts the planets and the long wait for a space probe to reach Pluto, which took nine years. He notes that Pluto is now classified as a dwarf planet, a term he finds somewhat derogatory, suggesting it might be more enjoyable to refer to it as an elf planet instead. The segment connects these themes to the Age of Aquarius and the ongoing interest in space exploration.