Things get pretty weird in our society, as specific monikers for cosmic objects like planets and galaxies can also be considered offensive by some people. Therefore, NASA itself announces that astronomical objects won’t be referred anymore by using ‘offensive’ names.
We’re pretty sure that nobody has ever seen a planet or galaxy getting offended and start crying. But Stephen T. Shih, who is NASA’s Associate Administrator for Diversity and Equal Opportunity, provides a reasonable explanation for the decision of the American space agency:
These nicknames and terms may have historical or culture connotations that are objectionable or unwelcoming, and NASA is strongly committed to addressing them.
Only scientific names remain
NASA itself also informs the public that all planets and cosmic objects will be referred to only by using their scientific names. For instance, the “Siamese Twins Galaxy” will be known only as NGC 4568 and NGC 4567.
NASA also explained their decision by releasing the following statements:
As the scientific community works to identify and address systemic discrimination and inequality in all aspects of the field, it has become clear that certain cosmic nicknames are not only insensitive but can be actively harmful,
NASA is examining its use of unofficial terminology for cosmic objects as part of its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The future of space exploration surely doesn’t look bad for NASA. Even though we’re all in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the American space agency launched the Mars 2020 mission at the end of July. The mission includes the Perseverance rover and the Ingenuity helicopter drone. If everything goes according to the plan, the touch down will be achieved in the Jezero crater of Mars on February, 2021.
The purpose of the Mars 2020 mission of NASA is to examine the surface of the Red Planet in order to find any possible signs of microbial life.
