tähtinimi

A "tähtinimi" is a Finnish term that translates to "star name" in English. In its primary and most common usage, it refers to a proper name assigned to a celestial body, specifically a star, by astronomical convention or popular culture. These names are distinct from the more technical designations given to stars, such as Bayer designations (e.g., Alpha Centauri) or Harvard spectral classifications.

Historically, many prominent stars were given names by various cultures based on their appearance, perceived mythology, or navigational significance. These traditional names, like Sirius, Rigel, and Betelgeuse, are considered "tähtinimi" in Finnish. In modern astronomy, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) is responsible for the official naming of celestial objects, though it primarily uses systematic catalog designations.

The concept of a "tähtinimi" can also extend to the practice of purchasing star names as novelty gifts. In these instances, an individual or organization assigns a name to a star and provides a certificate as a souvenir. However, it is crucial to understand that these purchased star names are not recognized by the IAU or the scientific astronomical community. They are purely symbolic and hold no astronomical significance beyond the personal or commercial context. Therefore, while the term "tähtinimi" can encompass both traditional, astronomically relevant names and commercially assigned ones, the distinction between scientifically recognized names and novelty names is important.