BrainStuff Season 3 Episode 6 Can You Really Name A Star?

BrainStuff is a popular science show that explores various intriguing topics related to science, technology, and the universe. Season 3, episode 6 of BrainStuff is titled "Can You Really Name A Star?" and delves into the process of naming a star and the legitimacy of star naming companies.

The episode begins with host Christian Sager introducing the concept of star naming and how it has gained popularity in recent years. He provides an overview of the process of star naming, which involves purchasing a star naming certificate from one of the many star naming companies that exist today. These certificates usually come with star coordinates, a star chart, and other supporting documents that make the gift of naming a star seem legitimate.

However, Sager soon points out that there is a lot of debate surrounding the validity of star naming companies. He discusses how the International Astronomical Union (IAU), an organization of professional astronomers, is the only authoritative body responsible for naming astronomical objects. According to the IAU, only they have the right to name stars and other celestial bodies. This means that purchasing a star naming certificate from a star naming company does not actually provide any legal or official recognition for the named star.

The discussion then moves on to the history of star naming and how it began with the Babylonians and Greeks who named stars after gods and heroes. It was later formalized by the famous astronomer Johann Bayer, who created a system for naming stars according to their magnitude. This system is still used today, and stars are named based on their position in the sky, constellation, and other scientific characteristics.

Sager then goes on to explain how star naming companies have capitalized on people's fascination with stars and the desire to give a meaningful and personalized gift. He explains that these companies use their own databases of stars that have already been named and sell them to customers who want a unique and special name for their star. The companies claim that the named star will be visible in the night sky and that the certificate and accompanying documentation will make the naming legitimate.

Next, the episode explores some of the ethical and scientific issues surrounding star naming. Sager discusses how the practice of selling star names undermines the scientific process and may confuse people by providing a false sense of ownership over a celestial object. Additionally, there is a concern that star naming companies are exploiting people's emotions and desire for a personalized gift by deceiving them into thinking they are naming an actual star.

To further highlight the issue, Sager speaks with Dr. David Kipping, an astronomer at Columbia University who is critical of star naming companies. Dr. Kipping explains that buying a star naming certificate is similar to buying a piece of land on the moon – it may sound like a fun and unique gift, but it is purely symbolic and has no legal or scientific significance.

The episode then discusses some of the alternatives to naming a star through a star naming company. One option is to make a donation to a scientific organization such as the IAU or a local observatory in honor of the person you want to recognize. Another option is to use online star charting tools to identify stars that have not been named and create your own star map or constellation.

In conclusion, the BrainStuff Season 3, episode 6 "Can You Really Name A Star?" explores the phenomenon of star naming and the challenges associated with naming a star through star naming companies. It provides a thought-provoking discussion about the scientific and ethical issues surrounding this practice and offers alternative ways to celebrate a loved one with the stars.