Currently browsing tag

naming

An Idea For Naming Planets, Stars, and Galaxies

I agree with the idea that we need a new way to name celestial bodies that helps the public feel a bit more in touch with the cosmos. We have two major problems with that now: the vast number of objects, and the limited number of thematic names we’ve traditionally used.

The NASA/Colbert Kerfuffle

I think I’ve found a solution to the Node-naming mess that has erupted between NASA and political humorist Stephen Colbert.

Planet, Planet, Burning Bright

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) submitted a proposal for the definition of a planet to its membership. No everyone was happy with what they came up with, including me. Here is my take on the silliness and my own attempt at a definition.