Published , Modified Abstract on Official Naming of Surface Features on Pluto and its Satellites: First Step Approved Original source
Official Naming of Surface Features on Pluto and its Satellites: First Step Approved
Introduction
Pluto, the dwarf planet located in the Kuiper Belt, has been a subject of fascination for astronomers and space enthusiasts alike. In 2015, NASA's New Horizons spacecraft flew by Pluto and its moons, providing the first close-up images of the planet and its surface features. Now, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) has approved the first step in the official naming of surface features on Pluto and its satellites.
The IAU's Role in Naming Celestial Bodies
The IAU is responsible for the official naming of celestial bodies and their surface features. The organization has a set of guidelines and procedures for naming these features, which are based on themes related to the mythology and history of the cultures of the world.
The First Step in Naming Surface Features on Pluto and its Satellites
The first step in the official naming of surface features on Pluto and its satellites has been approved by the IAU. This step involves the creation of a set of themes for naming the features. The themes will be based on the mythology and history of the cultures of the world, as per the IAU's guidelines.
The Themes for Naming Surface Features on Pluto and its Satellites
The themes for naming surface features on Pluto and its satellites have been proposed by the IAU's Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature. The themes are as follows:
Underworlds
This theme is based on the mythology of the underworlds of various cultures. It includes names such as Hades, Tartarus, and Xibalba.
Exploration Vessels
This theme is based on the vessels used for exploration throughout history. It includes names such as Beagle, Discovery, and Viking.
Scientists and Engineers
This theme is based on the scientists and engineers who have contributed to the study of Pluto and its satellites. It includes names such as Tombaugh, Burney, and Kuiper.
Fictional Explorers and Travellers
This theme is based on the fictional explorers and travellers from literature and popular culture. It includes names such as Skywalker, Gandalf, and Robinson.
Conclusion
The official naming of surface features on Pluto and its satellites is an important step in the study and exploration of the dwarf planet. The themes proposed by the IAU's Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature reflect the rich history and mythology of the cultures of the world. As more information is gathered about Pluto and its satellites, more surface features will be named, providing a deeper understanding of the planet and its place in the universe.
FAQs
What is the IAU?
The International Astronomical Union is an organization responsible for the official naming of celestial bodies and their surface features.
What are the themes for naming surface features on Pluto and its satellites?
The themes for naming surface features on Pluto and its satellites are Underworlds, Exploration Vessels, Scientists and Engineers, and Fictional Explorers and Travellers.
Why are themes used for naming surface features on celestial bodies?
Themes are used for naming surface features on celestial bodies to reflect the rich history and mythology of the cultures of the world.
What is the first step in the official naming of surface features on Pluto and its satellites?
The first step in the official naming of surface features on Pluto and its satellites is the creation of a set of themes for naming the features.
What is the significance of the official naming of surface features on Pluto and its satellites?
The official naming of surface features on Pluto and its satellites is an important step in the study and exploration of the dwarf planet, providing a deeper understanding of the planet and its place in the universe.
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