State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

#pluto

  • Pluto’s Landscape Is More Like Earth’s Than Previously Thought

    Pluto’s Landscape Is More Like Earth’s Than Previously Thought

    New analysis of data gathered from NASA’s 2015 flyby of Pluto shows evidence of Earth-like snow-capped mountains and the potential for glaciers made of methane ice.

  • Finding Pluto

    Finding Pluto

    Far away, a beloved dot Arcs through cold and shrouded spaces, Not lonely, as we had once thought, But circled by more rocky faces:

Collage of Turkiye beach scene and Columbia University Campus with text: UN Climate Change Conference COP31, Antalya, Turkiye, Nov 9-20, 2026

COP31, the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference, aims to advance dialogue, strengthen consensus, and accelerate climate action on a global scale. From November 9–20, 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye, heads of state, ministers, scientists, business leaders, and civil society will gather to advance efforts in emission targets, climate finance, and adaptation and resilience. Once again, our experts, students, and global thought leaders from Columbia Climate School and across Columbia University are contributing to key events, sharing insights, and helping shape the dialogue toward ambitious, science-based solutions. Learn More

  • Pluto’s Landscape Is More Like Earth’s Than Previously Thought

    Pluto’s Landscape Is More Like Earth’s Than Previously Thought

    New analysis of data gathered from NASA’s 2015 flyby of Pluto shows evidence of Earth-like snow-capped mountains and the potential for glaciers made of methane ice.

  • Finding Pluto

    Finding Pluto

    Far away, a beloved dot Arcs through cold and shrouded spaces, Not lonely, as we had once thought, But circled by more rocky faces: