How Does NASA Go About Naming a New Planet, Star, Asteroid, or Comet?

Imagine a world where social media holds the key to naming celestial bodies. Well, believe it or not, NASA once playfully tapped into the creative minds of its Twitter followers, sparking a cosmic trend that took social media by storm. In a lighthearted moment, NASA asked its social media community to suggest names for seven newly discovered exoplanets. With its vast knowledge and boundless creativity, Space Twitter didn't disappoint.

But amidst the excitement and humor, one might wonder: What does it truly take to name a new planet or any other celestial object? Do we, the curious public, have a say in the matter, or is it a privilege reserved for an elite few?

As it turns out, the process of naming celestial bodies is a captivating blend of science, history, culture, and even public engagement.

Scientific Confusion and Celestial Chaos

Back in 1919, the world of celestial nomenclature was in dire need of some order. While comets had long been named after their discoverers, thanks to the Romans, asteroids presented a whole different kind of cosmic puzzle.

With the rapid advancement of telescope technology during the Industrial Revolution, astronomers worldwide would publish lists of newly discovered asteroids in journals. The problem? These lists were often haphazardly compiled, lacking any rigorous cross-checking to ensure that a particular asteroid hadn't already been spotted and named.

The result was a celestial free-for-all where consistency was scarce, and confusion reigned supreme.

Recognizing the urgent need for order, a ray of hope appeared in the form of the International Astronomical Union (IAU). This global organization of professional astronomers took up the noble task of bringing clarity to the chaotic world of asteroid naming.

Under the umbrella of the IAU, astronomers set out on a mission to piece together fragmented records and, in some cases, even rediscover asteroids that had slipped through the cracks of the scientific community.

The IAU's dedication to establishing consistent naming conventions not only resolved the confusion but also laid the foundation for a more structured and reliable system for identifying and studying celestial objects.

The Careful Process

Naming celestial objects is like stepping into a cosmic jigsaw puzzle. Even today, stars, those twinkling luminaries that grace our night sky, remain beyond the scope of the International Astronomical Union (IAU). While the IAU has officially approved names for a few hundred well-known stars, the universe of star names is otherwise an open frontier waiting to be explored.

So, how does the careful process unfold?

Once a groundbreaking discovery reaches the IAU, the organization springs into action. They assign the object a temporary name, like a placeholder, allowing astronomers to identify and reference it during the confirmation stage. This temporary moniker is crucial as astronomers double-check records to ensure the object hasn't already been spotted and named.

Once the discovery is confirmed and validated, the celestial object receives a permanent number, a unique identity code that sets it apart from the cosmic crowd. Think of it as a celestial social security number.

For example, let's say an asteroid named "Stellaris" is confirmed as a new discovery. It might be assigned the permanent number "2023 AB4." This number becomes the object's eternal reference, a reliable way for astronomers worldwide to pinpoint and study it in their quests to unravel the cosmos.

What about comets, those icy travelers with their mesmerizing tails? The IAU has a special tradition for them. They adhere to a long-standing custom of honoring the first two discoverers by attaching their surnames to the object.

When it comes to asteroids, the naming game can get pretty exciting. Unlike stars, the discoverers of asteroids can suggest any name that tickles their celestial fancy as long as it adheres to a few fundamental rules.

First and foremost, an asteroid's name should be unique from any other names already in use and shouldn't be too lengthy. It should also be easily pronounceable, ensuring astronomers and enthusiasts can comfortably roll it off their tongues.

Additionally, the IAU insists on keeping things friendly and respectful. So, names connected to corporations are off the asteroid naming menu. We're here to celebrate the wonders of the cosmos, not advertise fast-food joints or tech giants. Pet names are also a no-go.

However, the creative juices can still flow with respect and historical context. Although there's a time limit, historical, political, and military figures, and events are permitted for asteroid names. The person must have died, or the event must have occurred at least 100 years ago.

Who Decides if a Suggested Name Makes the Cosmic Cut?

A committee within the IAU takes on this important task. They carefully evaluate the quality and suitability of the proposed names, weighing factors like historical significance and adherence to the established rules. It's like a cosmic review board, ensuring that the names chosen for asteroids are worthy of their celestial journeys.

Ultimately, an asteroid gains its official name when published in one of the IAU's monthly Minor Planets Circulars. These circulars serve as the official records of the ever-expanding cosmic family.

Where Does the Future Hold?

As space technology advances, the IAU faces an expanding mission of naming newly discovered celestial bodies and space features. With each technological leap, the task becomes more complex. To tackle this challenge, the IAU has developed thematic guidelines for naming geographical aspects of planets and moons.

While many of these concepts align with the gods of ancient Greek and Roman mythology and our solar system, the IAU embraces the opportunity to explore beyond these boundaries. Diverse sources of inspiration are considered, reflecting the rich tapestry of human culture and imagination.