Why was Pluto reclassified as a dwarf planet? 1) The definition of a planet was clarified: a planet must have a radius more than 1500 km. Pluto is not large enough and is a dwarf planet. 2) The definition of a planet was clarified: a planet must have a radius more than 1500 km. Pluto satisfied this condition when it was discovered, but has become smaller over time. 3) The definition of a planet was clarified: a planet must be able to clear away objects orbiting nearby. Pluto is not large enough for this. 4) The definition of a planet was clarified: a planet must have a spherical shape. Pluto is not large enough to assume a spherical shape.