The IAU’s position
Official names for stars and other objects are set by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). The IAU has stated that it dissociates itself entirely from the commercial practice of “selling” star names or real estate on other worlds. Most stars are known only by catalogue numbers, and the bright stars that do have names got them through the IAU.
What you actually buy
- A name entered in the company’s own register or book
- A certificate with coordinates and a printed star chart
- Each company keeps its own list, so the same star can be “named” many times
When it’s still fine
If both giver and receiver know it is a keepsake, not an official registration, a framed certificate can be a sweet gift. The problem is advertising that implies permanent official status. For pricier packages, check exactly what is included.
Better star gifts
| Gift | Why it works |
|---|---|
| A star map of a special night | The real sky on the day you met or were born, no misleading claims |
| A night of stargazing together | The trip somewhere dark is the gift |
| A date timed to a meteor shower | See the meteor shower calendar |
| A constellation card made from names | A shape only the two of you have, just for fun |
A constellation card made from a name
Create and save their constellation
In My Constellation, enter their name and birthday on the first tab, My Sky, and tap Save to collection. It joins your Collection. To return to your own sign, enter your name and birthday again; the same input gives the same constellation.
Screenshot it for a card
Take a screenshot of the constellation and add it to a handwritten card or a photo frame. It is a gift with no false promise of being “official.”
FAQ
Can I get a refund on a star name I already bought?
That depends on the seller’s terms. If the product doesn’t match the advertising, contact the seller first and then your local consumer protection agency.
Is there any way for the public to name something officially?
The IAU has run public contests to name some exoplanets and their host stars, but there is no way to pay to name a star of your choice.
My Constellation - Star Sign
One constellation drawn from your name and birthday. No sign-up, fully offline, free on Android.