Can You Really Name A Star?

TL;DR

You can name stars with private companies, but official astronomical names are assigned by the IAU.

Transcript

I'm Fraser Cain, the Publisher of Universe Today. There are services which will let you name a star in the sky after a loved one. You can commemorate a special day, or the life of an amazing person. But can you really name a star? The answer is yes, and no. Names of astronomical objects are agreed upon by the International Astronomical Union. If th... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤩 Official star names are designated by the International Astronomical Union, not private companies.
• 🤩 Most stars are identified by coordinates or catalog numbers, rather than traditional names.
• 🗯️ Discoverers of comets, asteroids, and extrasolar planets have naming rights.
• 🤩 Extrasolar planets are currently named after the star they orbit, not individually.
• 👨‍🔬 Naming astronomical objects could engage the public and support research funding.
• 🤩 Private companies offer star-naming services, but the names are not recognized by the IAU.
• 👾 Naming astronomical objects would connect the public to space discoveries and potentially aid research projects.

Questions & Answers

Q: Can you truly name a star after someone?

Yes, private companies offer star-naming services, but official astronomical names are designated by the IAU.

Q: Who decides on the names of astronomical objects?

The International Astronomical Union approves official names of stars, comets, asteroids, and planets.

Q: Can you name newly discovered objects in space?

Discoverers of comets, asteroids, and extrasolar planets can propose names which may be ratified by the IAU.

Q: How are extrasolar planets currently named?

Extrasolar planets are currently named after the star they orbit, with a designated letter for ordering.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Star names are approved by the International Astronomical Union, not private companies.

• Most stars are designated with coordinates or catalog numbers, not traditional names.

• Discovering comets, asteroids, and extrasolar planets can lead to naming rights.