How are solar system objects named?


Planetary satellites are named by the Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature of the IAU, in consultation with the SBNC (mainly to avoid conflicts of names), and they *usually* defer to the discoverer's wishes. Names of satellites are usually taken from Greek mythology or classical literature. Features on Solar System bodies are named by the same commission, generally following a specific theme for each body. For instance, most features on Venus are named in honor of famous women, and volcanos on Io are named for gods and goddesses of fire.

Go back to FAQ