planetarynaming

Planetary naming, or planetarynaming, is the practice of assigning official names to planets, dwarf planets, and their surface features, as well as to exoplanets. It provides a standardized vocabulary for scientific communication, mapping, and education, and is coordinated largely by the International Astronomical Union (IAU).

Historically, many early planetary names derive from mythological figures observed by ancient cultures. In the modern era the IAU began formalizing nomenclature to avoid duplication and confusion across languages and disciplines. Solar system bodies typically bear names connected to myths, wonders, or scientific themes, with distinct conventions for features such as craters or mountains, while Earth has a unique terrestrial name. The discovery and naming of distant worlds, including Uranus and Neptune, followed a mix of tradition and public input.

The IAU governs planetary naming through the Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature (WGPSN) and related committees. The process invites proposals from scientists, institutions, and, on occasion, the public. Names must meet guidelines: they should be culturally diverse, non-offensive, not commercially branded, and not designate living persons. Approved names are published in IAU lists and adopted in scientific usage.

Conventions cover multiple categories. Names for planets and major features often draw on mythological figures or historical associations. Surface features on planets and moons are typically named according to thematic lists—honoring scientists, explorers, writers, or mythic characters—depending on the body and feature type. Exoplanets initially receive provisional designations linked to their host stars, and may later receive official IAU names through public-engagement programs such as NameExoWorlds.

Overall, planetarynaming supports clear, international communication and public participation in astronomy, while preserving consistency across catalogs, maps, and scholarly work.