By Mark Young, SouthFloridaReporter.com Managing Editor, Aug 13, 2015 – Did you ever wonder how stars and planets got their names – well, wonder no more. Now you, yes you, can name a planet. For the first time in history the planet naming agency is asking for your input. Hmm, Pluto is taken, but what about Goofy or Mickey or…. Let us know what name you would select.
By Victoria Ward, The Telegraph, Members of the public have been given the chance to name planets for the first time.
The contest involves naming 20 planetary systems outside the solar system, known as ExoWorlds. They comprise 15 stars and 32 exoplanets.
Astronomy clubs and organisations from 45 countries submitted 247 proposals.
They include episilon Eridani, Pollux, 42 Draconis and Errai.
The IAU has shortlisted entries, and the list is now open to a public vote.
The closing date for entries is 31 October.
