Neighbor Island briefs

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BIG ISLAND

Talk to focus on solar system

WAIMEA, Hawai'i — The Keck Astronomy Lecture Series will feature California Institute of Technology planetary astronomy professor Mike Brown during a free event at 7 p.m. Thursday at Kahilu Theater in Waimea.

In his talk, titled "The Edge of the Solar System," Brown will provide a historical overview of planetary discovery in the outer solar system, and how recent findings suggest that Pluto should not be considered a true planet. He also will discuss his own ideas on where the real edge of the solar system is located.

For more information on the lecture series, call (808) 885-7887.

Puna home damaged in fire

KEA'AU, Hawai'i — A candle left burning in an upstairs bedroom ignited a fire that caused $120,000 damage to a Puna home Saturday morning.

When firefighters arrived at 6:09 a.m., the second floor of the two-story dwelling was in flames. Fire department spokesman Jonathan Patterson said the residence was uninsured.